The Raving Patients Podcast

The Raving Patients Podcast, where reputation matters! Get ready to learn not only how to revitalize your dental practice’s online reputation, but also increase your visibility and credibility on Google and how to use the power of your happy patients to market your practice online with The Reviews Doctor himself, Dr. Leonard Tau! For more information visit: https://www.drlentau.com/

Beyond the PMS: What Dentists Need to Know About Data, Benchmarks, and Profit 08/07/2026

Beyond the PMS: What Dentists Need to Know About Data, Benchmarks, and Profit Your practice management software holds plenty of data, but is it giving you the insights you actually need to grow? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Vin Cardillo, founder of Pronto Dental, to discuss why tracking the right metrics matters more than simply collecting data. From profitability and benchmarking to missed phone calls and perio performance, Vin shares how dentists can make smarter decisions, improve accountability, and build more profitable practices by understanding the numbers behind their business. Vin shares how aggregating data from multiple systems including practice management, accounting, HR, reputation management, and phone systems creates a clearer picture of practice performance. He explains how benchmarking helps identify opportunities for improvement and why focusing on a handful of high-impact metrics can dramatically increase profitability. The conversation also explores common areas where practices lose revenue, including missed phone calls, low periodontal treatment rates, accounts receivable, and underutilized production capacity. Vin discusses the importance of accountability, consistent SOPs, reviewing monthly financials, and using data to build confidence as a business owner. Whether you're a solo practitioner or growing multiple locations, this episode offers practical insights to help you run a healthier, more profitable dental practice. What You'll Learn Why your practice management software alone isn't enough. The value of combining data from multiple systems into one dashboard. The benchmarks every dental practice should monitor. How missed phone calls and poor scheduling impact revenue. Why periodontal treatment rates are one of the biggest missed opportunities. The financial metrics every dentist should understand. How data creates accountability throughout your team. Why confidence in your numbers leads to better business decisions. — Key Takeaways 01:00 Introduction and guest welcome 04:00 What Pronto Dental is and how it works 07:22 Why every practice needs a performance dashboard 12:30 The limitations of relying only on your practice management system 14:40 Understanding your P&L and key financial metrics 16:53 Benchmarks every dental practice should monitor 21:01 The most overlooked metrics in dentistry 23:20 What private practices can learn from DSOs 24:04 Low-hanging opportunities to increase profitability 26:05 Avoiding data overload and taking action 28:01 The biggest benefit of using performance data 29:18 Building accountability through measurable metrics 31:51 Lightning Round 36:35 How to connect with Vin Cardillo and closing remarks — Connect With Vin Email: vin@prontodental.com Learn how Pronto Dental helps practices aggregate data, benchmark performance, improve accountability, and uncover growth opportunities across every area of the business. Vin also offers 20% off the onboarding fee for listeners of the Raving Patients Podcast when you mention the show. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/42352990

Stop Blaming the Leads: How Dental Practices Can Convert More Big Cases 07/31/2026

Stop Blaming the Leads: How Dental Practices Can Convert More Big Cases What if the problem isn’t your marketing, but what happens after the lead comes in? Too many dental practices spend thousands on ads only to watch potential patients disappear because of slow follow-up, poor communication, and broken systems. Dr. Len Tau welcomes Tim Hines, President of Briteline Dental, to discuss one of the biggest challenges facing dental practices today: converting high-value treatment leads into scheduled patients. Tim shares how his team helps practices improve lead response times, nurture prospective patients, and build trust through human-first communication. Throughout the conversation, they explore why many practices mistakenly blame their marketing agencies when the real issue lies in lead management and follow-up systems. Tim explains the importance of speed-to-lead, multiple touchpoints, and conversational selling, especially for patients considering treatments like implants, full-arch restorations, and cosmetic dentistry. They also discuss the role of AI in dentistry, the impact of financing conversations, and how practices can avoid wasting valuable chair time on unqualified leads. If you've ever wondered why your marketing isn't producing the ROI you expect, this episode offers practical strategies you can implement immediately. What You'll Learn Why most dental practices have a lead management problem, not a marketing problem. The importance of speed-to-lead and consistent follow-up. How conversational selling increases treatment acceptance. Where AI fits into patient communication and where human connection still wins. How to qualify patients without making financing the focus. Ways to improve conversion rates for implants, full-arch cases, and cosmetic dentistry. How practices can avoid wasting valuable chair time on unqualified patients. Simple changes you can make this week to improve lead conversion. — Key Takeaways 01:55 Introduction to Tim Hines and Briteline Dental 04:00 What Briteline Dental Does for Dental Practices 06:35 Why Practices Blame the Wrong Problem 11:32 The Biggest Lead Conversion Mistakes Practices Make 16:03 Understanding the ROI of Big Case Marketing 19:12 How Outsourcing Lead Management Helps Practices Grow 22:22 Why Patient Advocates Matter More Than Appointment Setters 25:35 The Power of Conversational Selling 27:15 AI vs. Human Connection in Dental Practices 29:39 Is It a Marketing Problem or a Systems Problem? 31:50 Financing Conversations and Treatment Acceptance 35:00 Avoiding Unqualified Patients on the Schedule 36:52 Simple Changes to Improve Lead Conversion Today 37:57 How to Connect with Tim Hines 39:33 Final Thoughts and Supercharge Your Dental Practice Reminder /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/42273105

Stop Blaming the Software: Fixing the Workflows That Shape Patient Experience 07/24/2026

Stop Blaming the Software: Fixing the Workflows That Shape Patient Experience Your practice management software isn't the problem. More often than not, it's the workflows behind it. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Jill Nesbitt, founder of Optimize Dental Consulting, to discuss how dental practices can maximize their technology, improve patient experience, and eliminate operational bottlenecks without constantly chasing the next software solution. Whether you're a solo practice or managing multiple locations, Jill shares why software adoption, team training, and standardized workflows have a greater impact than the software itself. They also explore common mistakes practices make during software transitions, why patient billing often creates the biggest frustrations, and how optimizing existing systems can improve efficiency, profitability, and patient satisfaction. What You'll Learn Why workflow matters more than the software itself The biggest patient experience issues caused by poor system adoption Signs your practice has outgrown its current software How to successfully transition to cloud-based dental software The importance of team buy-in and change management Ways to maximize the technology you're already paying for How better workflows improve collections, operations, and patient satisfaction Why standard operating procedures (SOPs) are essential for software success Common mistakes practices make during implementation How multi-location practices can standardize operations without sacrificing efficiency — Key Takeaways 01:42 Stop Blaming the Software: Fixing the Workflows That Shape Patient Experience 03:16 Meet Jill Nesbitt and Optimize Dental Consulting 06:15 Why Most Practices Only Use a Fraction of Their Software 08:29 Choosing the Right Cloud-Based Practice Management System 12:30 How Software Directly Impacts Patient Experience 16:37 When It's Time to Switch Software 22:50 Unlocking Hidden Features and Workflow Automation 25:26 Training Your Team for Long-Term Success 28:34 Managing Change and Getting Team Buy-In 31:18 The First Step to Optimizing Your Current Software 34:58 Lightning Round with Jill Nesbitt 39:02 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Jill — Connect With Jill Website: LinkedIn: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/42199655

From Burnout to Better Dentistry: Systems, Technology, and Sanity 07/17/2026

From Burnout to Better Dentistry: Systems, Technology, and Sanity Burnout has become one of the biggest challenges facing dentists today, but it doesn't have to define your career. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with returning guest Dr. Eric Block to discuss the realities of burnout, the hidden stressors dentists face, and the practical systems that can transform a chaotic practice into one that supports both professional success and personal well-being. Dr. Block shares his own journey from questioning his career to rediscovering his passion for dentistry. Together, they explore leadership, standard operating procedures, going out of network, patient relationships, technology, and why creating efficient systems isn't just good for business—it's essential for your mental health. Whether you're a new dentist or an experienced practice owner, this episode is full of practical advice for building a healthier, more profitable practice. What You'll Learn Why burnout happens to so many dentists and how to recognize the warning signs. The importance of seeking help before stress becomes overwhelming. How leadership directly impacts practice culture and team performance. Why documented systems and SOPs reduce stress for both dentists and staff. The benefits and challenges of transitioning out of PPO insurance plans. How adding new technology and services can reignite your passion for dentistry. Why sleep apnea treatment is one of the biggest opportunities in modern dental practices. Practical strategies for creating a practice that supports your life instead of consuming it. Key Takeaways 00:54 From Burnout to Better Dentistry: Systems, Technology, and Sanity 03:53 Dr. Eric Block's journey into dentistry 05:40 Experiencing burnout and finding help 10:11 Why dentists struggle after dental school 14:45 Recognizing the warning signs of burnout 16:45 Getting help through therapy, coaching, and mentorship 18:53 The reality of PPOs and going out of network 23:42 Why every practice needs documented SOPs 25:46 Becoming a stronger leader 27:45 Building a practice that supports your life 29:58 What makes a healthy, high-performing practice 32:00 Why sleep apnea treatment excites Dr. Block 34:15 Lightning Round 37:50 How to connect with Dr. Eric Block — Connect with Dr Eric Website: Email: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/42123865

The Smarter Way to Market Your Dental Practice in 2026 07/10/2026

The Smarter Way to Market Your Dental Practice in 2026 In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Barrett Cox, Director of Performance Marketing at Net32, to discuss what dental marketing actually looks like in 2026. From online reputation and Google reviews to AI, paid advertising, and patient retention, Barrett shares practical strategies that help practices grow without wasting their marketing budget. Rather than chasing every new marketing trend, Barrett explains why the strongest practices focus on building trust first. A great patient experience, consistent educational content, and a solid online presence create the foundation that makes every marketing dollar work harder. He also shares how practices can better evaluate marketing agencies, avoid misleading performance metrics, and measure success using simple business numbers instead of complicated dashboards. Whether you're investing heavily in marketing or just getting started, this conversation offers practical advice to help you attract more patients, retain the ones you already have, and build sustainable growth for your practice. What You'll Learn Why reputation and trust are still the biggest drivers of new patient growth How to maximize a small dental marketing budget Common Google Ads mistakes that waste money The importance of patient retention before patient acquisition Simple ways to measure marketing ROI without complex dashboards How AI is changing dental marketing and SEO Why consistency matters more than posting constantly How to evaluate whether your marketing agency is actually delivering results The front desk's role in converting marketing leads into patients Marketing strategies every dental practice should prioritize in 2026 — Key Takeaways 00:55 Welcome to the Podcast & Introducing Barrett Cox 03:05 What Net32 Does for Dental Practices 05:02 What's Working in Dental Marketing in 2026 07:20 Google Ads, Brand Searches & Avoiding Wasted Spend 11:17 Marketing on a Small Budget 14:35 How to Measure Marketing Success 18:50 Building the Right Foundation Before Marketing 20:31 AI, SEO & The Future of Dental Marketing 22:23 Why Marketing Sometimes Fails 26:42 Easy Marketing Wins Every Practice Can Implement 28:20 Avoiding Marketing That Looks Good But Doesn't Perform 30:13 The Front Desk's Impact on Marketing ROI 30:52 Should Practices Use AI Receptionists? 32:38 The Biggest Marketing Mistakes Dentists Make 34:25 Final Marketing Advice & How to Connect with Barrett — Connect with Barrett Website: https://www.net32.com/ Email: bcox@net32.com — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/42030530

How AI is Reshaping Dental Practice Growth 07/03/2026

How AI is Reshaping Dental Practice Growth AI is changing dentistry faster than ever, but when it comes to marketing, not everything should be automated. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Michael Myers, CEO of DelMain, to discuss how dental practices can use AI to attract more patients without losing the authenticity that builds trust. From AI-powered search engines and Google's evolving algorithms to reviews, SEO, paid ads, and website strategy, Michael shares practical insights every dentist should understand before making their next marketing decision. If you've been wondering how AI will impact patient acquisition and what your practice should prioritize today, this conversation offers a clear roadmap for staying ahead. What You'll Learn How AI is changing the way patients search for dentists Why authentic content beats AI-generated content every time The biggest AI marketing myths dentists should ignore How reviews influence both Google and AI search recommendations Why custom websites outperform generic templates The future of Google Ads, Meta Ads, and AI-powered search Practical ways to use AI without sacrificing the patient experience What makes a dental practice become the obvious choice online Key Takeaways 02:00 How AI Is Reshaping Dental Practice Growth 03:38 What DelMain Does for Dental Practices 04:45 How AI Is Changing Dental Marketing 07:05 Where AI Fits Into the Patient Experience 12:20 The Biggest AI Marketing Myths 16:48 Google Ads vs. Meta Ads 18:35 AI Search vs. Google Search 23:08 Why Reviews Matter More Than Ever 27:26 How Practices Can Stand Out Online 29:55 Human-Led, AI-Supported Marketing 32:33 Lightning Round with Michael Myers 36:59 Final Thoughts and Special Offer — Connect with Michael 🌐 Website: Michael and the DelMain team help dental practices grow through customized websites, SEO, AI optimization, paid advertising, branding, and patient acquisition strategies. Mention the Raving Patients Podcast to receive a complimentary practice growth audit and a discount on a new website. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41952335

$300K Is Hiding in Your Inactive Patient List. Here's How AI Finds It. 06/26/2026

$300K Is Hiding in Your Inactive Patient List. Here's How AI Finds It. What if one of the biggest growth opportunities in your practice isn't finding new patients but reconnecting with the ones you already have? In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Ben Fish, Founder and CEO of EngageDent AI, to discuss how artificial intelligence is helping dental practices recover lost revenue, reduce no-shows, improve case acceptance, and strengthen patient relationships. Ben shares how AI-powered patient communication tools are transforming both inbound and outbound engagement, helping practices reconnect with inactive patients, recover unscheduled treatment, and ensure no opportunity slips through the cracks. He also explains why AI should be viewed as a tool that empowers teams rather than replaces them and offers practical advice for dentists evaluating AI solutions for their practices. If you're looking to improve patient retention, increase production, and future-proof your practice, this episode is packed with actionable insights. What You'll Learn Where practices are losing hundreds of thousands of dollars in unscheduled treatment How AI can reactivate inactive patients and recover missed opportunities Why patient trust is the key to reducing no-shows and increasing case acceptance The difference between AI replacing staff and AI empowering staff How AI receptionists can improve patient communication and capture missed calls Common reasons patients delay treatment and how AI helps overcome objections What dentists should look for when evaluating AI vendors How AI may transform dental practices over the next five years — Key Takeaways 01:44 $300,000 Is Hiding in Your Inactive Patient List 03:12 Meet Ben Fish and EngageDent AI 06:18 Where Practices Lose Revenue From Inactive Patients 10:42 Can AI Replace Front Desk Team Members? 15:09 Using AI to Improve Treatment Follow-Up 17:47 Real Practice Success Stories and Revenue Growth 21:50 Why Every Practice Needs Someone Answering the Phone 24:06 Winning Over AI Skeptics 26:31 How AI Reduces No-Shows 28:36 The Future of AI in Dentistry 32:30 Questions Every Dentist Should Ask AI Vendors 35:30 How Practices Can Prepare for an AI-Powered Future 37:14 Special Offer for Raving Patients Listeners 38:35 Final Thoughts and Takeaways — Connect with Ben Email: ben@engagedent.com Website: Special Offer for Raving Patients listeners: Mention the podcast and receive a waived implementation fee plus a pilot program opportunity. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41812670

Driving a Championship Culture 06/19/2026

Driving a Championship Culture What separates thriving dental practices from those constantly struggling with team turnover, communication issues, and operational chaos? In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with former NCAA National Champion, AP National Coach of the Year, and executive coach Matt Doherty to discuss how championship-level leadership principles can transform dental practices. Drawing from his experience playing under legendary coach Dean Smith and leading major college basketball programs, Matt shares practical strategies for building stronger cultures, creating accountability, and developing high-performing teams. Whether you're a practice owner, leader, or team member, this conversation offers valuable lessons on leadership, culture, hiring, and creating an environment where people can thrive. What You’ll Learn Why culture is the foundation of every successful dental practice The Organizational Triangle: Talent, Systems, and Culture Leadership lessons Matt learned from Dean Smith How to identify and communicate your practice's "why" Why core values often fail and how to make them actionable The importance of accountability without creating conflict How championship teams and successful dental practices share similar principles Why hiring for culture fit matters as much as hiring for skill How daily huddles and repetition build consistency and excellence Real examples of culture transformation inside dental practices — Key Takeaways 00:56 Driving a Championship Culture with Matt Doherty 04:10 From National Championship Coach to Dental Consultant 08:01 Why Culture Matters More Than Talent 11:27 Leadership Lessons from Dean Smith 16:12 Discovering Your Why as a Practice Owner 20:28 Building the Organizational Triangle 25:45 Education Without Action Is Just Entertainment 31:35 Creating Accountability Without Conflict 35:47 A Real Dental Practice Culture Transformation 37:52 How Matt Helps Dental Practices Build Winning Teams — Connect with Matt Website: Email: matt@dohertycoaching.com YT Channel: Doherty Coaching — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41699515

Set It and Collect It: How Smart Practices Are Building Recurring Revenue After Aligner Treatments 06/12/2026

Set It and Collect It: How Smart Practices Are Building Recurring Revenue After Aligner Treatments What happens after orthodontic treatment ends? For many practices, it's a missed opportunity. Patients lose retainers, stop wearing them, and eventually see their results begin to shift. Meanwhile, practices lose touch with patients and leave recurring revenue on the table. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Dr. Blair Feldman, orthodontist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Retainer Club, to discuss how practices can transform retention from an afterthought into a scalable patient care and revenue strategy. Drawing from his experience building and exiting multiple orthodontic practices, Blair shares how subscription-based retainer programs help practices protect treatment outcomes while creating a seamless patient experience. Dr. Len and Blair explore the economics of retainer programs, patient compliance, recurring revenue opportunities, AI adoption, and the importance of maintaining relationships with patients long after treatment is complete. Whether you're an orthodontist, Invisalign provider, or general dentist offering aligner therapy, this conversation offers practical strategies for extending patient lifetime value while improving clinical outcomes. What You’ll Learn Why retention is one of the most overlooked stages of orthodontic treatment How recurring revenue models can benefit both patients and practices The biggest mistakes practices make after treatment is completed How online retainer fulfillment improves patient compliance Recommended strategies for pricing retainer programs Why patient education is critical for long-term treatment success The role technology and automation play in post-treatment care How practices can increase patient lifetime value through retention programs The importance of transparency when discussing retention and retreatment Business lessons from building and scaling a successful dental startup Key Takeaways 01:48 Set It and Collect It: How Smart Practices Are Building Recurring Revenue After Aligner Treatments 04:20 The Retainer Gap Most Practices Overlook 08:11 Why Retainers Need Regular Replacement 11:13 Building Predictable Recurring Revenue with Retainer Programs 14:22 The Ideal Retainer Program Playbook 17:36 What Happens When Patients Lose Their Retainers? 18:40 Creating Long-Term Retention and Wellness Scan Strategies 23:05 Subscription Models and Automated Retainer Delivery 24:11 Beyond Orthodontics: Veneer Guards, Whitening Trays, and More 26:30 Why Every Aligner Practice Needs a Retention Program 31:14 Common Objections Practices Have About Retainer Programs 32:35 Lightning Round: Business, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship 38:45 Special Offer for Raving Patients Listeners — Connect with Dr Blair Co-Founder & President, Retainer Club LinkedIn: Website: Learn more about how Retainer Club helps practices create recurring revenue while protecting patient outcomes through seamless retainer fulfillment programs. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41619215

Seeing What Your Eye Can't 06/05/2026

Seeing What Your Eye Can't What if the biggest issues in dentistry are the ones you can’t see? In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with renowned prosthodontist and innovator Cherilyn Sheets to discuss how new diagnostic technology is changing the future of dentistry. Cherilyn shares the story behind Interview and Quantitative Percussion Diagnostics (QPD), a science-based system designed to detect cracks, loose restorations, implant instability, and structural weaknesses before they become catastrophic problems. Dr. Tau and Cherilyn explore how this technology helps dentists improve diagnostics, increase patient trust, and boost case acceptance by showing patients issues that traditional imaging often misses. They also dive into the intersection of dentistry, engineering, AI, and preventive care, along with the journey of bringing a groundbreaking dental innovation to market. From early diagnosis to patient communication, this conversation highlights how modern dentistry is moving beyond what can simply be seen on an X-ray. What You’ll Learn How Quantitative Percussion Diagnostics (QPD) works Why traditional imaging can miss structural tooth problems How Interview technology helps improve case acceptance The role of AI and engineering in modern dental diagnostics How dentists can identify cracks, loose crowns, and implant instability earlier Why preventive intervention creates better patient outcomes How Cherilyn Sheets helped develop and commercialize this technology The importance of combining science, integrity, and innovation in dentistry — Key Takeaways 00:56 Introduction to Cherilyn Sheets and Interview Technology 03:30 What Interview Technology Actually Does 06:11 Who Benefits Most from QPD Diagnostics 08:42 How Technology Improves Case Acceptance 11:10 Understanding Quantitative Percussion Diagnostics (QPD) 14:52 Detecting Cracks, Stress, and Structural Problems Early 17:55 Comparing Interview to Other Diagnostic Technologies 18:35 Using QPD to Find Pain Sources Faster 19:16 Common Objections and Ease of Use in Practices 23:22 FDA Approval and Product Validation 25:29 The Story Behind the Technology’s Creation 30:55 Why Interview Complements X-Rays Instead of Replacing Them 32:42 Cherilyn’s Passion for Innovation and AI in Dentistry 33:45 Lightning Round Questions 40:30 Special Offer and How to Learn More About Interview 41:40 Final Thoughts and Episode Wrap-Up — Connect with Cherilyn Website: Innerview AI - Email: cgsheets@ncofi.org Organization: Newport Coast Oral Facial Institute (NCOFI) — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41545370

What Dentists Get Wrong About Marketing (And How to Fix It) 05/29/2026

What Dentists Get Wrong About Marketing (And How to Fix It) What if the biggest reason your marketing is not working has nothing to do with your marketing company? In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with dental marketing expert Nicole Toudouze to unpack the most common marketing mistakes dental practices are making today and what dentists need to do differently to actually see results. Nicole shares practical insights from working with hundreds of dental practices, including why so many offices fail to define clear marketing goals, how missed phone calls quietly destroy ROI, why outdated websites sabotage ad performance, and the real budget practices need if they expect sustainable growth. The conversation also dives into AI in dental marketing, online scheduling, patient acquisition costs, realistic expectations, and why practices often blame marketing companies when the real issue lies inside the office systems. If you are investing in marketing but not seeing the growth you expected, this episode will help you identify where the disconnect may actually be and how to build a marketing strategy that truly supports long-term practice growth. What You’ll Learn The top five marketing mistakes dental practices are making today Why defining clear growth goals matters before spending on ads How missed phone calls destroy patient acquisition opportunities Why your website can make or break marketing performance The truth about realistic dental marketing budgets How Google Ads actually work behind the scenes Why dentists often give up on marketing too quickly Nicole’s thoughts on AI answering patient phone calls The importance of tracking ROI and marketing performance How AI and changing search behavior are reshaping dental marketing Key Takeaways 00:45 Introduction and Episode Overview 03:42 Nicole Announces Her New Podcast 05:15 What Transcend Dental Does for Practices 06:20 The First Marketing Mistake: Lack of Clear Goals 08:10 Why Answering the Phone Still Matters 09:24 AI Receptionists vs Human Connection 13:57 Why Your Website Could Be Hurting Marketing 14:46 Online Scheduling and Patient Expectations 16:48 The Reality of Dental Marketing Budgets 21:10 Why Dentists Underestimate Marketing Costs 27:05 The Problem with Unrealistic Marketing Expectations 27:50 How Google Ads Actually Learn and Improve 30:52 Why Marketing Companies Become the Scapegoat 33:08 How AI Is Changing Dental Marketing 35:18 What to Do If You Don’t Trust Your Marketing Company 37:48 How to Connect with Nicole Toudouze 38:48 Final Thoughts and Closing — Connect with Nicole Website: Instagram: @transcendentalagency Facebook: Transcend Dental Agency Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41462810

The Death of Manual RCM & Billing Agents 05/22/2026

The Death of Manual RCM & Billing Agents What if the biggest revenue leak in your practice isn’t production… but what happens after treatment is completed? In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with returning guest Shreyas Parab, co-founder and CEO of Daydream, to unpack how AI is transforming dental billing, insurance verification, and revenue cycle management. Shreyas shares how growing up in his mother’s dental practice shaped his understanding of the administrative burdens that silently drain profitability and damage the patient experience. From insurance verification mistakes to denied claims and surprise patient bills, this conversation dives deep into why outdated systems are costing practices far more than they realize. Dr. Len and Shreyas also explore the future of AI in dentistry, where it’s already succeeding, where it’s overhyped, and how practices can use automation to improve efficiency without sacrificing patient relationships. If you’ve ever struggled with insurance headaches, front desk overwhelm, staffing challenges, or negative reviews tied to billing confusion, this episode offers a practical look at how the future of dental administration is evolving. What You’ll Learn Why billing and insurance issues are one of the biggest causes of negative dental reviews How inaccurate insurance verification impacts patient trust and profitability The difference between AI that enhances a practice and AI that replaces human connection Where AI is already thriving in dentistry today Why administrative overload hurts both patients and team culture How automation can improve claim follow-up and reduce denials The future of front desk staffing and dental operations Why patient experience still matters more than technology How Daydream uses AI and human oversight together for RCM accuracy What dentists should focus on if they want more freedom and less operational stress — Key Takeaways 00:44 Introduction and Sponsor Message 02:00 Shreyas Reflects on Supercharge Your Dental Practice 04:23 Growing Up in a Dental Practice 09:30 AI’s Rapid Growth in Dentistry 13:40 The Reality of AI Receptionists 17:05 How Billing Problems Hurt Patient Experience 19:46 The Hidden Cost of Insurance Verification Errors 24:45 What Dental RCM Looks Like With and Without AI 27:18 Can AI Make Mistakes? 30:15 Reducing Denials and Increasing Profitability 32:20 Which Practices Benefit Most From Daydream 35:17 The Future of the Dental Front Desk 36:55 Why Better Systems Give Dentists More Freedom 38:47 How to Learn More About Daydream 39:10 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks — Connect with Shreyas Website: Free Dental Billing Resource: AI Google Review Analysis Tool: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41391475

Local Search Is Changing Fast But Not How You Think 05/15/2026

Local Search Is Changing Fast But Not How You Think What if everything you thought you knew about local search… is only half the story? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with local search expert Mike Blumenthal to unpack what’s actually driving visibility, engagement, and patient acquisition today. From the evolving role of AI to why fundamentals like reviews, branding, and user experience still dominate, this conversation challenges the shortcuts most practices rely on. If you’re focused on rankings but not results, this episode will shift your perspective on what truly matters in building a sustainable, patient-generating online presence.. What You’ll Learn Why local search fundamentals haven’t changed, even with AI advancements How Google evaluates engagement and why it impacts your rankings The real role of reviews, brand, and reputation in attracting patients Why AI is changing how patients search, not what matters most How to optimize your website for conversion, not just traffic The growing importance of long-form, intent-based search queries Why local brand building may be your biggest competitive advantage — Key Takeaways 00:41 Introduction to Mike Blumenthal and local search expertise 04:03 The evolution of local search and what hasn’t changed 04:40 Google algorithms vs changing search displays 06:29 The future of AI in search and user behavior 09:45 What dental practices should focus on in marketing 11:59 Website engagement and user experience fundamentals 14:38 Online scheduling and conversion strategies 16:32 Understanding engagement signals beyond bounce rate 20:36 Visibility, credibility, and engagement explained 24:47 Reviews, ratings, and patient experience balance 25:25 Categories and ranking factors in local SEO 27:54 The role of citations and directory authority 31:06 Surprising user behavior trends and AI usage 36:15 The #1 focus for dental practices moving forward 38:06 Best practices for generating effective reviews 40:18 Where to follow Mike Blumenthal — Connect with Mike Email: mblumenthal@nearmedia.co Website: Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41305105

The Human Side of Practice Growth : Building Trust Before the Treatment Plan 05/08/2026

The Human Side of Practice Growth : Building Trust Before the Treatment Plan What if your biggest growth opportunity isn’t your marketing… but how your team communicates? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with returning guest Danny Bobrow to break down the human side of practice growth. From the first phone call to treatment acceptance, Danny explains why trust, empathy, and communication skills are the real drivers behind case acceptance and long-term patient loyalty. They dive into why most practices mishandle leads, how emotional decision-making impacts patient behavior, and the simple shifts your team can make to create stronger connections that lead to more yeses. If you want better conversions, stronger relationships, and a more consistent patient experience, this episode is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn Why patients make decisions emotionally before justifying with logic The three C’s of persuasive communication and how they impact case acceptance How poor phone handling is costing practices new patients What actually defines a “qualified lead” Why listening is one of the most valuable skills in your practice How to build trust quickly in the first 30 seconds of a call The difference between convincing and true persuasion How to get your entire team aligned and consistent with communication — Key Takeaways 00:46 Introduction and episode overview 01:54 About Danny Bobrow and his background 03:24 How Danny helps dental practices grow 06:33 The importance of communication in patient conversion 08:08 Why listening is a critical skill 09:57 Overview of the Persuasion Blueprint 11:50 Emotional decision-making explained 13:19 The three C’s of communication 14:58 Breaking down caring, connection, and collaboration 16:48 Common mistakes practices make 18:40 Understanding different types of “yes” 20:48 Getting team buy-in and consistency 25:45 What defines a qualified lead 28:36 Handling unqualified or difficult leads 29:02 Avoiding a “salesy” approach 31:05 Building trust in the first interaction 32:06 Why how you say things matters more than what you say 33:10 The impact of trust on referrals and retention 34:16 Lightning round Q&A 35:14 How to connect with Danny — Connect with Danny 📧 Email: dbobrow@aimdentalmarketing.com 🌐 Website: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41213990

From Owner to CEO: The Systems, Data, and Leadership Behind Scalable Practices 05/01/2026

From Owner to CEO: The Systems, Data, and Leadership Behind Scalable Practices What if the biggest thing holding your practice back isn’t your skills… but how you run the business? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Dr. Rehan Shahid to break down the real shift dentists must make to grow, scale, and reclaim their time. From understanding your numbers to building systems and empowering your team, this conversation reveals what it truly takes to move from overwhelmed owner to confident CEO. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the day-to-day grind, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, growth, and what’s actually possible for your practice. What You’ll Learn The key mindset shift from practice owner to CEO Why most dentists stay stuck in reactive mode How systems create scalable, stress-free growth The KPIs every practice owner must track and understand How to effectively delegate without losing control Why most team meetings fail and how to fix them The biggest profit leaks in dental practices Practical steps to “buy back your time” as an owner Key Takeaways 00:48 Introduction to the episode and guest 03:33 Dr. Rehan Shahid’s journey and building multiple practices 06:35 Owner vs CEO mindset explained 06:57 Reactive vs proactive leadership in dentistry 08:25 Delegation and empowering your team 11:50 Systems and scaling multiple locations 12:15 Why dentists must know their numbers 12:37 Key KPIs that drive growth and profitability 15:32 How to delegate and buy back your time 17:18 When to hire an office manager 19:43 Why most team meetings fail 19:45 Building effective, structured meetings 22:39 Steps to start thinking like a CEO 24:20 Coaching, mentorship, and growth 26:46 Identifying profit leaks in your practice 30:45 Final mindset shift for long-term success 31:40 Lightning round Q&A — Connect with Dr. Rehan Instagram: @practicesuccessacademy Website: Free 30-minute strategy call available — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more at: Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41071745

Why Your Membership Plans Sucks 04/24/2026

Why Your Membership Plans Sucks If your membership plan isn’t driving real retention and recurring revenue… it’s probably broken. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Paul Lowry, CEO of Dental Menu, to unpack why most dental membership plans fail and what practices should be doing instead. From understanding the difference between access-based care and traditional discount models to leveraging subscriptions, rewards, and smarter systems, this conversation reveals how to turn your membership plan into a true growth engine. If you want more loyal patients, better retention, and predictable revenue without relying on insurance, this episode is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn The real reason most dental membership plans fail The difference between a membership plan vs. a discount plan Why “access to care intervals” outperform annual plans How subscription-based models improve retention and revenue The concept of “breakage” and how it increases profitability How rewards programs boost loyalty and treatment acceptance Why cash-pay patients are often your biggest missed opportunity The biggest mistake teams make when implementing membership plans How to properly track membership revenue without hurting KPIs Ways to customize plans for different patient types — Key Takeaways 00:47 Introduction and episode overview 02:34 Meet Paul Lowry and Dental Menu 03:57 What Dental Menu does and why plans fail 05:30 Membership plan vs discount plan explained 07:10 Why annual plans struggle with retention 08:41 Access to care intervals and subscription model 12:35 Monthly vs annual plans and auto-renewal 13:43 How membership plans increase revenue 16:51 Retention data and missed opportunities 18:29 Rewards programs and patient loyalty 20:20 Add-ons and increasing profitability 23:47 Common objections from practices 26:50 Team adoption challenges 28:09 Managing membership revenue properly 33:55 Lightning round begins 37:25 How to connect with Paul — Connect with Paul Email: Paul@DentalMenu.com Website: DentalMenu.com Special Offer: Mention Raving Patients to get $200 off the onboarding fee — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/41000545

Wellness Is The ROI: How Ergonomics and Stress Management Drive Practice Performance 04/17/2026

Wellness Is The ROI: How Ergonomics and Stress Management Drive Practice Performance What if the biggest threat to your dental practice isn’t competition… but your own physical health? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Caitlin Parsons, dental hygienist and ergonomics and wellness consultant, to unpack how chronic pain and stress are silently impacting productivity, team dynamics, and patient experience. Caitlin shares her personal journey from nearly leaving dentistry due to pain to becoming a leader in helping dental professionals create sustainable, high-performing practices. From small ergonomic tweaks to integrating yoga therapy into your daily workflow, this conversation reveals how prioritizing wellness isn’t just good for your body… it’s a smart business move. If you’ve ever pushed through discomfort or felt burnout creeping in, this episode is your wake-up call to rethink how you care for yourself and your team. What You’ll Learn Why chronic pain is so common in dentistry and what causes it The connection between stress, posture, and patient experience How poor ergonomics impacts productivity and team performance Simple ergonomic adjustments that can make a big difference Why “pushing through pain” can cost you long-term The role of yoga therapy in managing stress and improving focus Practical ways to support your team’s health without major investments How small daily habits can improve longevity in your career — Key Takeaways 00:49 Introduction & Episode Overview 02:55 Caitlin Parsons’ Background & Journey 05:55 Prevalence of Pain in Dentistry 07:05 Signs of Poor Ergonomics 09:20 Impact of Stress & Chronic Pain on Performance 12:00 Real-Life Story on Patient Perception 14:36 Desk Ergonomics & Daily Habits 16:41 What is Ergonomic Optimization? 19:04 Small Changes That Make a Big Impact 20:55 The Danger of Ignoring Pain 23:40 Introduction to Yoga Therapy 26:55 Actionable Steps for Practice Owners 31:00 Lightning Round Q&A 34:40 How to Connect with Caitlin — Connect with Caitlin Website: Email: hello@thealignedhygienist.com Instagram: @thealignedhygienist 🎁 Bonus: Caitlin is offering a complimentary 15-minute ergonomic strategy call for individuals or teams looking to improve their workflow, reduce pain, and boost performance. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more at: Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40907260

The Growth Formula No One Is Talking About In Dentistry 04/10/2026

The Growth Formula No One Is Talking About In Dentistry What if the biggest growth opportunity in your dental practice isn’t outside… but already sitting inside your system? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Lorie Streeter to unpack the real growth formula most practices overlook. While many dentists chase new patients, Lorie reveals why the true driver of sustainable growth lies in reactivating existing patients, strengthening systems, and elevating the patient experience. From overlooked treatment plans to broken follow-up systems, this conversation dives deep into how practices can unlock hidden revenue, improve retention, and turn everyday patients into raving fans. If you want predictable growth without constantly spending on marketing, this episode is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn Why growth in dentistry is an “inside job” The hidden revenue sitting in your existing patient base How poor follow-up systems are costing practices thousands The real role of patient experience in driving referrals and retention Why marketing alone won’t fix growth problems How office managers can become the engine behind practice success Simple ways to improve patient experience starting immediately The importance of listening and clear communication in case acceptance — Key Takeaways 00:45 Welcome + Episode Introduction 03:20 What Max Assist Does and How It Helps Practices 04:56 Key Features That Set Max Assist Apart 06:50 Growth Is an Inside Job Explained 08:45 The Problem with Follow-Up Systems 11:20 Why Patient Experience Drives Growth 16:29 The Power of the Office Manager Role 19:45 Practical Ways to Improve Patient Experience 25:09 Leveraging Employer Groups for Growth 27:47Patient Retention vs New Patients 28:18 Fixing Follow-Up and Case Acceptance 29:40 One Thing to Change in Your Practice Tomorrow 31:40 Lightning Round — Connect with Lorie Website: Email: lorie.streeter@maxassist.com — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40782820

The Excellence Curve: Confidence, Delegation, and Elite Ortho Outcomes 04/03/2026

The Excellence Curve: Confidence, Delegation, and Elite Ortho Outcomes Most dentists think growth comes from doing more… but what if it actually comes from doing less, better? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Kelley Tyrrell to break down what she calls The Excellence Curve—a smarter, more scalable way to grow your orthodontic and aligner cases without burning out. Kelley shares how micro-education, intentional delegation, and engineered systems can transform not just your clinical outcomes, but your entire practice efficiency. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed managing cases, second-guessing treatment plans, or stuck doing work your team could handle, this episode will shift your perspective. Because real growth is not about doing everything yourself—it is about building systems that deliver excellence consistently. What You’ll Learn Why micro-education tied to real patient cases accelerates learning How delegation can dramatically increase efficiency and profitability What “The Excellence Curve” really means for dental practices The role of systems and workflows in scaling orthodontic cases How to choose the right digital support instead of doing everything yourself Why retention programs are critical for long-term success and revenue How confidence and mentorship drive consistent practice growth The hidden cost of not delegating your aligner setups Key Takeaways 00:47 Introduction and guest background 03:35 Why dentists should listen to Kelley Tyrrell 04:45 Micro-education and case-based learning 06:10 The power of delegation in orthodontics 09:20 Scaling practices through digital workflows 13:13 What is The Excellence Curve 15:47 Patient accountability and retention importance 17:43 Systems and repeatable workflows for growth 20:25 Confidence, mentorship, and scaling success 23:47 Retention protocols and long-term patient care 29:34 Digital treatment planning and delegation model 34:26 Lightning round insights from Kelley 40:02 How to connect with Kelley Tyrrell — Connect with Kelley Email: . LinkedIn: Kelley Tyrrell Instagram: @clearly.kelley -- Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40720055

How to Get Chat GPT and Gemini to Recommend Your Dental Practice 03/27/2026

How to Get Chat GPT and Gemini to Recommend Your Dental Practice Being visible online used to mean showing up in search results. Now it means being the practice AI tools choose to recommend when patients ask for help finding a dentist they can trust. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with marketing expert Adrian Lefler, CEO of MySocialPractice, to break down one of the biggest changes coming to dental marketing. AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and other large language models are rapidly becoming the way patients search for dentists. Instead of scrolling through search results, many patients now ask AI assistants for recommendations and go directly to the practice suggested. Adrian explains how this new “zero-click search” environment is transforming SEO, what practices must do to stay visible, and why reviews, social media, and website performance now play a critical role in whether AI recommends your practice or ignores it. If your practice wants to stay competitive in the AI era, this episode explains exactly where to start. What You’ll Learn What “zero-click search” means and why it is changing dental marketing How AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini recommend dental practices Why traditional SEO strategies are no longer enough The role of reviews, social media, and directories in AI visibility How to check whether AI currently recommends your practice The three most important steps dentists should take right now to stay visible online — Key Takeaways 00:00 Episode introduction and podcast recognition 01:15 Introducing Adrian Lefler and today’s topic 03:05 Why AI is the future of dental marketing 04:00 How AI receptionists and chat technology are changing patient communication 06:00 The coming shift from traditional search to AI search 09:00 What “zero-click search” means for dental practices 12:30 Why voice search and conversational search are growing 13:00 Traditional SEO vs AI-driven search 17:00 How AI search engines gather and evaluate information 19:30 Why reviews, social media, and user-generated content now matter more 21:40 How to check if your practice is recommended by AI 24:30 Why AI responses vary depending on user search history 28:20 The first steps dentists should take to get recommended by AI 31:10 Why website speed and schema matter for AI SEO 33:00 The problem with templated dental websites 34:30 Adrian Lefler’s Bite Size Podcast 35:30 How dentists can evaluate their AI visibility 37:10 Final thoughts on preparing your practice for the AI future — Connect with Adrian Website: Email: adrian@mysocialpractice.com Adrian also hosts the Bite Size Podcast, focused on AI and technology in dentistry. Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . — This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40630595

Mastering Mindset: How Leaders Push Past Fear and Doubt 03/20/2026

Mastering Mindset: How Leaders Push Past Fear and Doubt Why do so many talented professionals feel stuck even when they have the skills and ambition to succeed? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with executive coach Thomas Passalacqua to explore how mindset, self-awareness, and leadership clarity can help dental professionals move past fear, doubt, and imposter syndrome. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau welcomes Thomas Passalacqua, certified executive coach and founder of Ascend Professional Pathways. Tom specializes in helping leaders, dentists, and ambitious professionals overcome internal barriers that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Drawing on his experience in education, dental sales, and business development, Tom shares how leadership success often comes down to mastering the human side of decision making. Dr. Tau and Tom discuss why professionals often feel stuck in their careers, how imposter syndrome holds leaders back, and why most decisions should be made quickly rather than overanalyzed. Tom also explains his Ascend Clarity Process, a framework designed to help professionals gain perspective, identify obstacles, and take meaningful action toward their goals. Whether you are a practice owner, associate dentist, or team leader, this conversation offers practical strategies for developing confidence, making better decisions, and building momentum in your career. What You’ll Learn Why many successful professionals still feel stuck or uncertain\ How leadership challenges often come from internal mindset barriers The difference between coaching, consulting, and advising The impact of imposter syndrome in dentistry and leadership How the 98% Decision Rule can reduce overthinking Strategies for gaining clarity and building forward momentum How executive coaching helps professionals unlock their potential Why focusing on what you can control is key to growth Key Takeaways 00:48 Introduction and sponsor acknowledgments 03:00 Meet Thomas Passalacqua and his coaching background 04:40 Leadership coaching and the human side of business 07:00 Why professionals often feel stuck 09:20 Building momentum and shifting perspective 11:34 Coaching vs consulting: What makes executive coaching different 13:30 Who Tom works with and common leadership challenges 14:47 Understanding imposter syndrome in leadership 17:10 Case study: Helping an associate dentist regain confidence 19:25 Coaching business owners through growth and team leadership 22:05 The Ascend Clarity Process explained 24:50 Maintaining momentum after breakthrough progress 27:22 Following your internal compass and career transitions 28:55 Common internal struggles professionals face 29:59 Lightning round Q&A with Thomas — Connect with Thomas Website: Email: thomas@ascendpropathways.com Special Offer: Mention the code RAVING when reaching out to receive 10% off executive coaching and leadership development programs. /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40555905

Compliance Isn’t Sexy, But It Sure Beats Noncompliance 03/13/2026

Compliance Isn’t Sexy, But It Sure Beats Noncompliance Compliance might not be the most exciting part of running a practice, but it can protect your patients, your team, and your business. In this episode, Will Gilmore breaks down the real-world basics of OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control, plus how to stay calm and ready if an investigator ever walks in. Dr. Len Tau sits down with Will Gilmore of Elevate Compliance to talk about what dental practices actually need to stay compliant with OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control regulations. Will explains the “three pillars” of compliance (training, policies, and implementation), why compliance should be part of daily culture, and what typically triggers investigations. They also dive into HIPAA and online reviews, including how to respond without crossing the line, why most offices won’t ever get in trouble if they keep responses neutral, and the bigger risks around cybersecurity and patient data. Will closes with a reminder: don’t panic, compliance issues can be handled, and agencies are often willing to work with you. What You’ll Learn The 3 pillars of practice compliance: training, policies, and implementation The most common things that trigger OSHA vs HIPAA issues How to build a “ready-anytime” compliance culture in your office Safe, neutral best practices for responding to online reviews Why email is still the biggest risk for data breaches and ransomware How emotional control (EQ) can help during inspections and investigations Will’s practical mindset: don’t panic—most issues are solvable and negotiable — Connect with Will Website: Email: will@elevatecompliance.net Offer mentioned in episode: Use code RAVING for 15% off the first 3 months (Elevate Compliance platform) — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40422475

Rebuilding the Bridge Between Diagnosis and Decision 03/06/2026

Rebuilding the Bridge Between Diagnosis and Decision Patients are saying “I’ll think about it” more than ever — not because they don’t want care, but because they can’t see how to afford it. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau and Nancy Coy break down how dental practices can rebuild trust, improve the money conversation, and create a clear path from diagnosis to a confident “yes.” Dr. Len Tau sits down with Nancy Coy of FinanceRx to talk about what really causes case acceptance breakdowns. They discuss why affordability is the #1 barrier for patients, how practices should structure lending options beyond just one provider, and why the money conversation must start earlier in the patient journey — even before the patient walks in. Nancy also shares compliance risks practices often overlook, and Dr. Len explains how offering the right financing at the right time can turn patients into lifelong raving fans. What You’ll Learn Why affordability is the biggest reason patients delay treatment How to respond when teams resist financing because of “fees” The difference between revolving credit vs installment loans When and how the money conversation should happen in the patient journey Why having multiple lenders (by credit tier and case size) matters The compliance pitfalls that can hurt your reputation and revenue How trust and transparency can dramatically increase case acceptance Key Takeaways 00:44 Welcome and Sponsors 03:20 Nancy’s Career Journey 05:40 Affordability Blocks Treatment 10:56 Diagnosis to Decision Gap 13:20 Building Patient Trust 18:10 Presenting Without Selling 22:10 Credit and Compliance 23:47 Smarter Lending Strategy 29:56 Avoiding Regulatory Risk 34:51 Inside FinanceRx 36:24 Lightning Round 39:20 Final Takeaways — Connect with Nancy 📩 Email: ncoy@finrxstudio.com 🌐 Website: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40338200

Mastering Your Dental Practice: The Power of Managing by Numbers 02/27/2026

Mastering Your Dental Practice: The Power of Managing by Numbers Are you paper rich but cash poor? If your practice looks successful on reports but doesn’t feel successful in your bank account, this episode is for you. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau welcomes Tala Batarseh, visionary behind Dentala Coaching and Consulting. Tala shares practical strategies for managing dental practices by data rather than emotion, helping dentists gain clarity, profitability, and predictability. They dive deep into the five essential KPIs every practice must monitor, why many practices are “paper rich but cash poor,” how to improve case acceptance ethically, the importance of reducing downtime, and why onboarding and team retention are just as critical as patient retention. If you want stronger cash flow, better team performance, and systems that run on autopilot, this episode delivers actionable insight you can implement immediately. What You’ll Learn The 5 essential KPIs every dental practice must track Why production means nothing without collections What a healthy collection percentage should look like How to measure case acceptance properly The danger of ignoring downtime in your schedule Easy “low-hanging fruit” strategies to increase revenue Why onboarding failures cause team turnover How to shift from transactional dentistry to relationship-based care — Key Takeaways 00:45 Welcome & Episode Introduction 03:20 How Tala Helps Dental Practices Grow 06:07 Paper Rich, Cash Poor Explained 07:55 The 5 Essential KPIs Every Dentist Must Know 15:07 What Healthy Production & Collection Numbers Look Like 22:17 Case Acceptance Benchmarks & Strategy 25:39 Low-Hanging Fruit in Your Practice 27:50 Building a Strong Onboarding System 32:01 Advice for Office Managers 33:09 Lightning Round Q&A 38:30 How to Connect with Tala — Connect with Tala 📱 Text: 647-407-1336 📧 Email: tala@dentalaconsulting.ca 🌐 Website: Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40249450

Blind Trust to Consistent Oversight 02/20/2026

Blind Trust to Consistent Oversight Trust is essential in every dental practice. But blind trust? That’s where financial leaks begin. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with certified fraud examiner Julie Rentz to uncover how embezzlement happens in dental offices, the red flags most doctors miss, and the simple systems that can prevent thousands in lost revenue. Embezzlement in dentistry is more common than most practice owners realize, and it rarely starts with obvious theft. It starts with blind trust, lack of oversight, and small process gaps that quietly grow over time. Julie Rentz, a Certified Fraud Examiner and forensic specialist, shares what she has seen inside dental practices and explains why small teams, divided attention, and undefined systems create vulnerability. She breaks down how adjustments become the “black hole” of dental accounting, how repeated “mistakes” can signal intentional fraud, and why refunds and credits are often overlooked risk areas. This episode shifts the focus from reacting to fraud to proactively preventing it. If you want stronger financial controls, cleaner systems, and more confidence in your numbers, this conversation is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn Why blind trust is the number one tool an embezzler uses Behavioral and operational red flags dentists often miss Where revenue cycle risks most commonly occur Why adjustments are the “black hole” of dental accounting How to tell the difference between a mistake and fraud Why reconciling PMS deposits to bank statements matters How refunds and credits can expose your practice Best practices for handling cash securely Why consistent oversight protects your revenue Key Takeaways 00:56 Introduction and episode overview 03:05 Why dentistry is a target for embezzlement 07:48 Behavioral red flags and blind trust 09:38 Revenue cycle risk areas 13:47 The black hole of adjustments 15:00 Auditing and defining adjustments 17:04 How often to audit reports 18:38 When a mistake becomes fraud 20:54 Proactive fraud prevention strategies 22:00 Refunds and credits as hidden risks 25:10 Cash handling best practices 27:51 The power of consistent oversight 30:54 Lightning round Q&A 35:29 How to connect with Julie Connect with Julie Email: Phone: 983-208-4613 Website: VerifindForensicSolutions.com 🎁 Special Offer for Raving Patients listeners: Julie is offering a three-month financial systems evaluation at a discounted rate of $750. Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40172690

The Science Behind the Smile 02/13/2026

The Science Behind the Smile Bleeding gums are not normal — and ignoring them could be costing your patients far more than their teeth. In this episode of The Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau takes a rare clinical deep dive with dental hygienist, educator, and founder of Microbelink DX, Jennifer Seider. Together, they unpack the science behind bacterial testing, why periodontal disease should be treated as an infection (not just “pocketing”), and how objective diagnostics can dramatically increase case acceptance, improve systemic health outcomes, and elevate practice revenue. If you’ve ever struggled with converting bloody “prophys” into true periodontal therapy, this conversation will shift how you think about diagnosis, communication, and patient education. What You’ll Learn Why bleeding gums should always be treated as an infection The connection between periodontal disease and systemic health (including cardiac conditions) How bacterial testing simplifies periodontal conversations Why paper-point sampling makes testing easy and efficient How to improve case acceptance for scaling and root planing How periodontal diagnostics can increase restorative production The biggest objections practices have about bacterial testing — and how to overcome them Why customer service still wins in dentistry — Key Takeaways 00:40 The Science Behind the Smile 01:10 Sponsors and Supercharge Your Dental Practice Event 02:00 Meet Jennifer Seider and Microbelink DX 05:31 Dr. Len’s Cardiac Patient Story 07:55 How Microbelink DX Differs from Other Testing Companies 11:50 Cost, Insurance Coverage, and Revenue Impact 14:17 How Long Does Testing Take in Hygiene? 16:05 Which Patients Should You Test First? 19:30 Verbal Skills for Presenting Bacterial Testing 22:05 Using Microscopes for Patient Education 24:20 Why Isn’t Bacterial Testing Mainstream? 27:20 Sampling Technique and Deep Pockets 29:55 Increasing Case Acceptance and Production 31:10 How to Deliver Test Results 32:22 Lightning Round Q&A — Connect with Jennifer Website: https://microbelinkdx.com/ Jennifer offers free team calibration and training, plus direct customer support. Practices can schedule a Zoom, use website chat, or text her directly through contact details listed on the site. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40096035

AI and Dentistry :How Practices Will Get Found Over the Next Decade 02/06/2026

AI and Dentistry :How Practices Will Get Found Over the Next Decade AI is changing how patients find dentists—but it’s not replacing your front desk tomorrow. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Evan Maass (Founder/CEO of DentistOffices.com) to break down what’s real vs. hype in AI, where dental marketing is still failing practices (hello, “mystery SEO reports”), and how visibility is shifting from traditional Google search toward AI-driven recommendations. Evan also shares where reviews, directories, and user-generated content (like Reddit) fit into the next decade of “getting found.” What You’ll Learn The biggest problems dentists face with SEO and ad spend (and how to spot “scam SEO”) Where AI is useful today (keyword intent, targeting, automation) vs. where it’s not ready (phone answering agents replacing humans) How AI search and traditional Google search overlap—and what “AI visibility” really means Why reviews + user-generated content will matter even more in the future What to ask a marketing agency before signing a contract (ownership, references, specialization) How directories (DentistOffices, Yelp, Healthgrades, etc.) can influence being recommended by AI tools — Key Takeaways 00:38 Welcome + Sponsors + Episode intro 01:46 Meet Evan Maass + background 02:50 What DentistOffices.com is and how it works 05:55 How DentistOffices compares to ZocDoc 06:55 State of dental marketing: SEO frustration + ad waste 08:50 AI in dental marketing right now: what’s useful vs. hype 11:05 Why AI phone agents aren’t “prime time” yet 13:27 The review risk: AI agent frustration + negative reviews 14:34 A safer setup: auto-attendant for new vs. existing patients 15:10 Testing AI agents (the “rhinoplasty” question) 16:02 AI security + “jailbreak” concerns 17:30 In 5 years: what roles AI may replace in practices 20:00 Will Google disappear? AI search vs. Google evolution 23:39 Reviews and trust signals: why they matter more over time 24:35 Why Reddit influences AI recommendations 25:15 How dental offices can use Reddit carefully 31:00 Questions to ask marketing agencies before hiring 35:00 Specialist vs. “do-it-all” marketing + budget realities 38:50 Lightning round success, habits, mindset, favorites 43:25 How to reach Evan + add your practice to platform 45:20 Wrap-up + “Your reputation matters” — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/40015620

The Top Tax Mistakes Dentists Make That Are Costing Them Millions 01/30/2026

The Top Tax Mistakes Dentists Make That Are Costing Them Millions Most dentists assume that paying massive tax bills is just part of success — but that belief could be costing you millions. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with tax strategist Rachel Michaelov, Founder and CEO of Practice Wealth Partners, to uncover the most common (and costly) tax mistakes dentists make — and how proactive planning can legally reduce tax liability, sometimes all the way to zero. If you’ve ever written a painful check to the IRS and wondered if there’s a better way, this episode is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn Why most dental CPAs are reactive — not strategic The dangers of disconnected bookkeeping, payroll, and tax prep How improper entity structure and payroll decisions raise audit risk Why buying equipment last-minute isn’t real tax strategy How quarterly tax planning can dramatically reduce liability Common myths around audits, R&D credits, and tax strategies What dentists should demand from their accounting professionals Key Takeaways 01:55 Top Tax Mistakes Dentists Are Making 03:00 Why Dentists Overpay Even With a CPA 03:40 The Cost of Disconnected Financial Teams 04:40 Enrolled Agent vs CPA: What’s the Difference? 12:10 Why Retirement Plans Alone Aren’t Enough 14:40 Buying Equipment vs Strategic Tax Planning 15:58 Choosing the Right Business Entity 20:05 Cost Segregation, R&D, and Advanced Strategies 24:40 How to Challenge Your CPA (Without Fear) 28:35 Do Tax Strategies Increase Audit Risk? 32:34 The Biggest Tax Myths Dentists Believe 34:00 Lightning Round with Rachel Michaelov — Connect with Rachel 📞 Phone: 646-284-4705 📧 Email: rachel@empiretaxadvisors.com Be sure to let Rachel know you heard her on the Raving Patients Podcast. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/39933035

Scaling Smart: From Startup to Sustainable Growth 01/23/2026

Scaling Smart: From Startup to Sustainable Growth What if attracting better patients, reducing no-shows, and cutting insurance headaches could all happen before someone ever walks into your practice? In this episode, Dr. Len Tau sits down with Tobi Bosede, Founder and CEO of Dental Find, to explore how smart marketplaces, prepaid care, and membership-style models are reshaping dental growth. Tobi shares her journey from building AI systems for Fortune 500 companies to solving one of dentistry’s biggest pain points: patient acquisition without no-shows, awkward financial conversations, or insurance dependency. This conversation dives into scaling intentionally, avoiding burnout, and building businesses that actually last. What You’ll Learn How prepaid dental marketplaces reduce no-shows and increase case acceptance Why fee-for-service growth matters more than ever The key differences between Dental Find and traditional marketplaces How dentists can improve patient retention without relying on insurance Practical lessons on scaling a startup without burning out Why relationships matter more than products in dental growth Key Takeaways 01:45 Scaling Smart: From Startup to Sustainable Growth 03:00 What Dental Find Is and How It Works 03:55 Dental Find vs Traditional Marketplaces 07:35 Why Dentistry Needed a New Model 10:10 Current Markets and Expansion Plans 13:06 Reducing No-Shows and Increasing Retention 14:50 Getting Paid Faster Without Insurance 16:27 From Idea to Market: Building a Startup 19:20 Team Building, DSOs, and Strategic Partnerships 24:02 Burnout, Balance, and Sustaining Momentum 31:42 Lightning Round with Tobi Bosede — Connect with Tobi Founder & CEO, Dental Find Website: Email: — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/39847420

Dentists Who Ignore AI Search Will Fall Behind 01/16/2026

Dentists Who Ignore AI Search Will Fall Behind Most dentists are still focused on Google rankings — but patients are quietly changing how they search. Instead of typing “best dentist near me,” they’re asking AI tools like ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, and other intelligent assistants to recommend a dentist for them. And here’s the hard truth: If your practice isn’t visible to AI, you don’t exist in those conversations. In this episode, Dr. Len Tau welcomes Eri Georgiev, founder of SoRN AI, a tech-driven growth agency helping businesses — including dental practices — get recommended by large language models like ChatGPT, Google’s AI Overviews, Perplexity, and Gemini. Eri breaks down how AI search works differently from traditional Google search and why dentists need to start thinking beyond rankings and keywords. Instead of showing a list of websites, AI tools now recommend providers — often selecting just one or two practices for a patient to consider. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Len and Eri explore what actually influences AI recommendations, including website structure, authority signals, reviews, online mentions, and even platforms many dentists overlook — like Reddit. Eri explains why AI traffic often converts at a higher rate than Google traffic and how early adopters of AI search optimization can leapfrog larger, more established practices. The episode also dives into practical, actionable strategies dentists can implement now, such as optimizing site structure for AI crawlers, using schema markup, leveraging reviews beyond Google, and positioning themselves as trusted entities online. Erialso shares a forward-looking view of what’s coming next — a world where AI assistants may book dental appointments directly for patients. If you care about practice growth, patient acquisition, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing digital landscape, this episode is a must-listen. What You’ll Learn Why AI search is quickly becoming a new patient acquisition channel How ChatGPT and other LLMs decide which dentists to recommend The key differences between traditional SEO and AI Search Optimization (AISCO) Why Reddit, reviews, and online authority matter more than ever Simple, practical steps dentists can take now to stay ahead Key Takeaways 01:29 Dentists Who Ignore AI Search Will Fall Behind 03:30 What SoRN AI Does & Why AI Search Matters for Dentists 05:55 Early Adopters, AI Search & Competitive Advantage 09:35 ChatGPT vs Google: How Patients Are Searching Now 11:48 What Is AI Search Optimization (AISCO)? 16:09 SEO vs AI Search: What Dentists Still Need to Do 16:49 Why Reddit Has Massive Influence on AI Recommendations 19:50 Google Reviews vs Reddit Comments: What AI Looks At 24:17 The Future: AI Booking Appointments for Patients 26:37 Technical Wins Dentists Can Implement Right Now 30:40 Lightning Round Q&A with EriGeorgiev 36:55 Special Offer for Raving Patients Listeners — Connect with Eri Founder, SoRN AI 🌐 Website: 🎁 Special Offer: Mention The Raving Patients Podcast and receive $1,000 off your first month of service. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at . This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more . This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more . Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more! /episode/index/show/ravingpatientspodcast/id/39755505

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