The Future of Dentistry

Better referrals do not start with more software; they start with better systems and stronger relationships. In this episode, Anne Duffy talks with Cameron Full, founder of Referral Lab and Tekneq, about how resourcefulness, relationships, and leadership shape the future of dental care. Cameron introduces the idea of “bricolage,” a practical, MacGyver-like approach to solving problems with the tools already in front of you. For many dental teams, that once looked like homemade spreadsheets and manual systems to manage referrals. Those real-world workarounds eventually helped inspire Referral Lab, a platform now serving hundreds of dental specialists. Anne and Cameron also dig into why the specialist-GP relationship is one of the most important drivers of patient outcomes and practice growth. Cameron shares why repetition builds expertise, why interdisciplinary care matters, and why strong referral systems need more than technology to succeed. The conversation turns to leadership, especially the often-overlooked need for true front-office leadership, and how practices can avoid becoming overly automated in the AI age by staying deeply human with patients and teams. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What “bricolage” means and how it applies to dental practice problem-solving. Why referral relationships between GPs and specialists are critical for better care. How repetition and focus help specialists deliver stronger outcomes. Why interdisciplinary dentistry benefits patients, providers, and practices. What Referral Lab has learned from working with hundreds of dental practices. How referral data can reveal missed follow-ups, conversion gaps, and growth opportunities. Why front-office leadership can make or break operational success. How dentists can delegate leadership without losing clinical control. Why too much automation may make dentistry feel commoditized. How human connection remains a key differentiator in the AI age. Cameron’s advice for entrepreneurs on consistency, integrity, and patience. Tune in to hear how better referral systems, stronger leadership, and a more human approach can help dental practices grow with purpose. You Can Learn More About Cameron Full Here: Website: https://referrallab.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronfull/ Podcast "The Special Lists": https://www.speciallists.com/ Want to get more involved? Join our membership and community below for exclusive perks! Join the Dental Entrepreneur movement by becoming a member using this link. Join the DeW Life movement by becoming a member using this link. Read the most recent edition of DeW Life Magazine here. The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com . Mentions and Links: Organizations & Companies: Tekneq – digital strategy firm for dental practices Pikos Institute – advanced surgery training institute (Cameron is a faculty advisory board member) Seattle Study Club – referenced for interdisciplinary care model University of Iowa (School of Dentistry) – where Cameron's grandfather taught pediatric dentistry People: Christy Carver – Referral Lab team member Jessica Magnatta – Referral Lab team member Marnie Blythe Dr. Bob Margeas – well-known lecturer who reconnected Cameron to dentistry Dr. Jason Stoner – introduced Cameron to specialty dentistry Dr. Micheal Pikos Michael Jordan Claude Lévi-Strauss – anthropologist referenced for the concept of "bricolage" Malcolm Gladwell – referenced for the "10,000 hour rule" MacGyver – TV show referenced as an analogy for resourceful problem-solving

The next era of dentistry is about more than numbers; it’s about the legacy you build every day. In this episode of The Future of Dentistry, Anne Duffy sits down with Dr. Victoria Peterson, co-founder of Productive Dentist Academy, to unravel what actually makes a dental practice “investible” in today’s evolving landscape. With decades of experience guiding owners through the Investment Grade Practice framework, Dr. Peterson shares hard-won wisdom rooted in culture, leadership, and genuine team alignment, not just numbers on a spreadsheet. Their conversation journeys from the emotional impact of PDA co-founder Dr. Bruce Baird’s recent passing to the practical realities of succession planning, ESOPs, and fostering a resilient practice culture. Dr. Peterson offers real-world advice for owners navigating a crowded, sometimes overwhelming market, shedding light on the dangers of fragmented DIY guidance and “buyer beware” pitfalls. From the hidden downside of high insurance write-offs to the arrival of AI and dentistry’s potential to drive holistic health, this episode is a masterclass for dentists who want their practice to stand out over the next decade! What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why culture, team, and leadership alignment are the real drivers of practice value The untold importance of succession planning and practice continuity Common pitfalls independent dentists face when buying or selling a practice today How to use the “Investment Grade Practice” framework to make your practice worth owning and selling The impact of poorly managed insurance write-offs on your bottom line (and how to fix it) Signs of owner stress and burnout (and how to prioritize center-court leadership) The future role of dentists as holistic “oral physicians” supporting whole-body health How AI could change the game for clinical documentation and team efficiency What “DIY dentistry” mistakes to avoid as a clinically-strong dentist Tips to create genuine, patient-centered systems that last far into the future Press play now to future-proof your dental practice with actionable insights that empower you, your team, and your patients! You Can Learn More About Dr. Victoria Peterson Here: Website: https://productivedentist.com/ Website: https://investmentgradepractice.com/ Email: [email protected] Want to get more involved? Join our membership and community below for exclusive perks! Join the Dental Entrepreneur movement by becoming a member using this link. Join the DeW Life movement by becoming a member using this link. Read the most recent edition of DeW Life Magazine here. The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com . Mentions and Links: People: Dr. Bruce Baird Robyn Damaris Gary Takacs Dr. Hazel Glasper Kari Miller Dr. Jackson Beam Dr. Wade Kifer Dr. Braden Baird Companies & Resources: HR for Health (Ali Orochian) Amen Brain Clinic Dentaltown AACD Dental Nachos Books and Publications: "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen Covey DeW Life Magazine - Winter 2026

What if the future of dentistry was shaped not just by innovation, but by the way we gather, grow, and build community? That’s exactly what’s in store as Anne Duffy welcomes Dr. Philip Schefke, incoming president of the Chicago Dental Society, to discuss what’s next for the 2026 CDS Midwinter Meeting. Dr. Schefke shares visionary changes, starting with a revamped, attendee-friendly website designed to make participation seamless for everyone in the dental field. As the conversation unfolds, we get an insider’s look at how the CDS Midwinter Meeting is evolving into a must-attend experience for dentists, hygienists, office managers, and assistants alike. With over 140 lectures, specialized workshops, and networking lounges (including tailored spaces for early-career dentists, students, and international guests) the event aims to spark collaboration and joy throughout entire office teams. Special highlights like a keynote from hockey great Chris Chelios and interactive puppy petting stations promise a blend of education, community, and memorable fun. Dr. Schefke also reflects on the enduring power of dental community, urging us to honor the personal connections and mutual support that fuel success in modern dentistry. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How attendee feedback transformed the CDS Midwinter Meeting website experience The vital role the event plays in uplifting the whole dental community What goes into curating 140+ lectures and 250+ engagement opportunities Tips for energizing your entire team and maximizing take-home value Highlighted special event features, from celebrity keynotes to puppy therapy stations The importance of professional spaces for networking and relaxation for subgroups Strategies for maintaining the doctor-patient relationship amidst rising bureaucracy Dr. Schefke’s journey and insights into building a collaborative dental community Hit play to discover how you and your entire dental team can thrive at the reimagined CDS Midwinter Meeting! You Can Learn More About Dr. Philip Schefke Here: Website: http://cds.org/mwm Want to get more involved? Join our membership and community below for exclusive perks! Join the Dental Entrepreneur movement by becoming a member using this link. Join the DeW Life movement by becoming a member using this link. Read the most recent edition of DeW Life Magazine here. The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com . Mentions and Links: Organizations: Chicago Dental Society Midwestern University ADA ISDS Illinois Masonic Hospital People: Dr. Bill Simon Karen Davis Marissa Gora Katrina Sanders Amanda Hill Lora Hooper Chris Chelois Sports: Chicago Blackhawks Detroit Red Wings

Today we're discovering how the principles of CrossFit and expert coaching can empower women practice owners to become bold, effective leaders in dentistry! Ken Kilday, CEO of Leader's Cut, sits down with Anne Duffy on today's episode to unpack leadership challenges and share his journey from financial services to becoming a renowned executive leadership coach. Ken focuses on the unique obstacles faced by female practice owners and offers compelling insights into balancing clinical duties with running a successful business. His coaching approach involves personalized leadership coaching that begins with the dentist and expands to include the entire team, creating a cohesive environment where strengths are recognized and leveraged for growth. Ken's conversation with Anne goes beyond theory, drawing fascinating parallels between the methodical discipline of CrossFit and effective business management. The episode is rich with practical advice on achieving work-life balance, honing time management skills, and the transformative power of incremental changes. Highlighting real-world examples, Ken demonstrates how small, intentional processes can yield significant advances. For anyone feeling stationary in their career trajectory, this episode serves as an inspiring call to action—embracing the value of external coaching to propel your professional growth! What You'll Learn in This Episode: The unique challenges female dental practice owners face in balancing roles. How personal strengths can be leveraged for practice growth and success. Practical time management tactics derived from the discipline of CrossFit. The impact of small, intentional changes leading to significant practice improvements. The advantages of having a coach for objective insights and continuous growth. Real-life success stories of dentists thriving with Ken's coaching. Tune in now to transform your practice's potential through insightful leadership coaching! (This episode originally aired on November 06, 2024) You Can Learn More About Ken Kilday Here: Website: https://kenkilday.com/ Reach Out to Ken About the White Paper Course: https://kenkilday.com/contact/ Want to get more involved? Join our membership and community below for exclusive perks! Join the Dental Entrepreneur movement by becoming a member using this link. Join the DeW Life movement by becoming a member using this link. Read the most recent edition of DeW Life Magazine here. The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com . Mentions and Links: TV: Kitchen Nightmares Tabitha Takes Over Books: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change People: Stephen Covey

Is your inner critic holding you back from becoming the leader you were meant to be? On this episode of The Future of Dentistry podcast, Anne Duffy sits down with executive coach Thomas Passalacqua to unravel the power of clarity and human connection in entrepreneurial success. Drawing from his rich background in education and sales, Thomas shares his path to discovering his passion for empowering others and introduces his signature Ascend Clarity Process. Together, they explore the concrete steps leaders can take to set goals, overcome obstacles, and reflect on growth, all while navigating the persistent undercurrent of self-doubt, especially among women in dentistry. Throughout their candid conversation, Anne and Thomas dive deep into the role of authenticity and the soft skills that drive entrepreneurial excellence. Thomas’s insights into mentorship, coaching, and accountability shine a light on what it truly means to thrive on your own terms. Learn why staying true to what makes you feel genuinely alive (and listening to the positive feedback you receive) can become your ultimate advantage. If you’ve ever struggled to cut through your inner critic, this discussion promises actionable strategies and inspiring perspectives to fuel both your personal and career growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The four-step Ascend Clarity Process for reaching your goals Techniques to overcome self-doubt and develop unstoppable confidence Why accountability and human connection matter in achieving success How to embrace authenticity and identify your unique strengths The value of mentorship and coaching for lasting career growth Soft skills that set dental entrepreneurs apart in sales and business Ways to tune into your internal calling and pursue what energizes you The critical role of objective support when facing challenges Press play now to find the clarity, confidence, and support you need to elevate your career and your life! Learn More About Thomas Passalacqua Here: Website: https://ascendpropathways.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomaspassalacqua/ Dental Entrepreneur Fall 2025: https://issuu.com/dentalentrepreneur/docs/dental_entrepreneur_-_fall_2025 Love the podcast? Please leave us a review! It will help us help more entrepreneurs just like you ❤️ Want to get more involved? Join our membership and community below for exclusive perks! Join the Dental Entrepreneur movement by becoming a member using this link. Join the DeW Life movement by becoming a member using this link. Read the most recent edition of DeW Life Magazine here. The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com . Mentions and Links: Events: The DeW Life Retreat 2026