Dental Operations Unpacked

Why Software Implementations Reveal the Truth About Your DSO

Most DSOs think software will solve their problems. The reality? Software implementation reveals them. In this episode of Dental Operations Unpacked, Jake Larsen and Clint Berry sit down with Jill Nesbitt, Founder of Optimized Dental Consulting, to discuss why software transitions often uncover hidden operational issues, inefficient workflows, revenue cycle blind spots, and gaps in standardization. Jill shares real-world examples of how implementation projects have helped DSOs discover collection problems, reporting inaccuracies, workflow breakdowns, and missed opportunities for growth. The conversation also explores why successful software adoption requires more than a go-live date—it requires change management, clear success metrics, training, and operational alignment. Topics discussed: • Why software implementation exposes operational truths • Common mistakes DSOs make during software transitions • Revenue cycle issues hidden inside existing workflows • The role of standardization in same-store growth • How AI and modern technology are changing DSO operations • Creating meaningful success metrics beyond go-live • Change management and adoption strategies that actually work Whether you're a CEO, COO, Operations Leader, IT Director, or Revenue Cycle Manager, this episode provides practical insights for making technology investments successful. #DentalDisruptors #DSO #DentalOperations #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalTechnology

From Office Manager to Business Leader: Driving Performance Across Every Location

What does it take for an office manager to become a true business leader? In this episode, Katie Robinson, Director of Operations at Cook Dental Group, joins Jake Larsen and Clint Berry to discuss how dental organizations can empower office managers to drive performance, lead teams, and influence outcomes across every location. Katie shares actionable insights on leadership development, delegation, KPI ownership, mentorship, accountability, and why clear expectations are critical for operational success. This conversation is full of practical advice for DSOs and operators looking to build stronger leadership at the practice level.

The Talent Problem in Dentistry: What Operators Don’t Understand About Hiring

The dental talent problem goes far beyond just “finding people.” In this episode, Humberto Briceño joins us to break down what operators don’t understand about hiring, retention, candidate experience, and building strong dental teams for the long term. From recruiting specialists and hygienists to creating better hiring systems inside DSOs, this conversation is full of practical insights for dental leaders navigating today’s hiring challenges. 🎧 Listen now to Dental Operations Unpacked.

The Silent Cash Leak: Why Unworked Claims Pile Up So Fast and How to Prevent It

Why do claims pile up so fast in dental practices? And more importantly… why do they never seem to go away? In this episode, we sit down with Sissy Mangrum to unpack the “silent cash leak” happening inside revenue cycle processes. From eligibility mistakes to behavior-driven breakdowns, we explore why most practices are fixing symptoms instead of solving the real problem—and how that’s costing thousands every month. We also cover: * The true starting point of the revenue cycle * Why 90% of denials are preventable * The hidden cost of working denials * How to improve efficiency without adding more people If you’re in operations, billing, or leadership—this is a must-listen.

Stop Running the Practice Alone: A Better Model for Dentists

If you’re a dentist feeling stretched thin… you’re not alone. In this episode of Dental Operations Unpacked, we sit down with Mike Baird, CEO of Accelerate Dental, to talk about what’s really changing in dentistry—and why the traditional solo model is getting harder to sustain. From rising costs to insurance pressure, dentists today are being pushed into tough decisions: stay independent and carry the full burden… or join a DSO and give up control. Mike breaks down a third option. We dive into: * Why solo practices are getting squeezed more than ever * The real tradeoffs between independence and DSOs * What most DSO models get wrong * A new ownership model that keeps autonomy intact * How dentists can scale without losing control If you’re thinking about the future of your practice—or the future of dentistry—this conversation is worth your time.