Shows
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The Startup DentistDental Startup Fears: What’s Stopping You and What to Do About ItIn this episode, Stephen Trutter pulls back the curtain on the fears that hold so many associate dentists back from ownership. If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by uncertainty, debt, or the unknowns of practice ownership, this conversation is the mindset reset you need to take your next big step.2025-07-3121 min.png)
The Startup DentistThe Real Estate Mistake That Could Wreck Your Dental StartupChoosing your real estate too early—or without a strategy—can cost you everything. In this episode, Stephen Trutter breaks down the must-know truths about real estate for startup dentists and how to protect your practice from one of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes of your career.2025-07-1827 min.png)
The Startup DentistYour Podcast Episode Title HereIn this episode of The Startup Dentist, I dive into the essentials of building a successful dental practice. Join me, Steven Trotter, as I chat with Dr. Aarti, who defied the odds by establishing a thriving practice in Manhattan. We explore her approach to patient connection and community immersion. Later, I welcome esteemed dental attorney Rob Montgomery to discuss the critical legal aspects of starting a practice. We cover the importance of understanding associate agreements, focusing on non-competes and termination clauses. Whether you're a new dentist or an aspiring practice owner, this episode is packed with insights to help you...2025-06-2650 min%20(1).png)
The Startup DentistThe 13 Stages That Built 800+ Successful Dental StartupsReady to turn your dream practice into reality? In this episode, Stephen walks you through the exact 13-stage system that’s helped over 800 associate dentists open customized, thriving startups—often reaching profitability in year one.2025-06-0448 min
The Startup DentistYour Podcast Episode Title HereIn this episode of The Startup Dentist, I sit down with Dr. Arti Jagirdar to talk about what it really means to break free from the conventional model of dental ownership. From walking away from acquisition offers to launching her own Manhattan practice, Dr. Arti shares how she’s reshaping dentistry on her terms—and thriving.2025-05-1942 min-1.png)
The Startup DentistThe Startup Dentist’s Financing GuideThinking about opening your own practice? In this episode, Stephen Trutter shares real-world tips to avoid the biggest financing mistakes that can crush your startup dreams.
You'll learn why saving cash beats paying down student loans, why you can’t time the market, and how to prepare for bank approvals the smart way.
If you're serious about practice ownership—and want to do it right—this episode is your blueprint. Grab a notepad and get ready to move closer to your dream practice!2025-04-2828 min.png)
The Startup DentistHow to Buy the Right Dental PracticeThinking of buying a dental practice? In this game-changing episode of The Startup Dentist Podcast, Stephen Trutter breaks down the exact 13-stage roadmap Ideal Practices uses to help dentists confidently acquire practices that align with their long-term vision—and avoid the mistakes that leave new owners stuck, stressed, and struggling.2025-04-1445 min
The Startup DentistThe Power of Partnership: How Twin Dentists Built a Thriving Startup PracticeIn this episode of The Startup Dentist, we dive into the inspiring journey of Drs. Andrew and Tim, founders of Twin Teeth Family Dentistry. Join me as we explore how they transitioned from initially considering a practice acquisition to confidently launching their own dental startup. We discuss the strategic choices they made—from selecting optimal demographics and assembling a strong team to fostering deep community connections—that led to impressive growth, welcoming over 2,000 patients within their first year. Learn about their challenges, successes, and the meaningful ways they’ve committed to giving back locally. Whether you're exploring the idea of a star...2025-03-1339 min
The Startup DentistResults Driven Demographics: Secrets from 800 Successful Dental StartupsIntroduction to the Topic: Choosing the right location for your dental startup isn't just about finding an open space—it’s about understanding the demographics that will drive your success. In this episode, Stephen Trutter shares proven strategies for analyzing demographic data, identifying your ideal patient base, and ensuring your practice is set up in a community that supports long-term growth.Key Points Discussed: Why demographics are the foundation of any successful dental startup. How to define your ideal patient based on age, socioeconomic status, and procedure mix. The limitations of generic demographic reports and how to i...2025-03-0630 minThe Startup DentistFrom Zero to Four: Secrets to Explosive Growth from the Fastest Growing Dental StartupStephen Trutter welcomes Dr. Andrew Vallo, a dentist who has successfully expanded from one startup location to multiple thriving practices in just a few years. They discuss the mindset, systems, and strategies necessary for scalability, sharing actionable tips for dentists aspiring to grow their practices. **Key Points Discussed:** - Starting strong: Building a scalable foundation from day one. - Delegation and leadership: How to empower your team and step into the CEO role. - Operational efficiency: The importance of systems that adapt and grow with your practice. - Marketing strategies...2025-01-2153 minThe Startup DentistDental Startup Partnerships: Divide and Conquer or Failure to Launch?This episode unpacks the complexities of dental startup partnerships, from the benefits of collaboration to the potential risks of misalignment. Stephen provides actionable advice for navigating partnerships, including how to assess compatibility and structure agreements to set the stage for long-term success.**Key Points Discussed:** - Why partnerships can be both a blessing and a challenge in dental startups. - The importance of shared values, philosophies, and clinical approaches. - Examples of successful partnerships and lessons from failed ones. - The role of clear agreements and defined decision-making in avoiding...2025-01-0733 minThe Startup DentistFrom Dream to Reality: Growing and Sustaining a Thriving Dental Startup**Introduction to the Topic:** This episode features Dr. Rachel Eglash, founder of Eglash Dental Studio in Pennsylvania, who shares her journey of building a startup practice from scratch. Stephen and Dr. Eglash dive into the lessons learned, the importance of community engagement, and how creating a strong team culture drives sustainable growth. **Key Points Discussed:** - The decision to choose a startup over buying an existing practice. - Building a patient-centered culture that reflects personal values and vision. - Strategies for overcoming challenges like construction delays and staff...2024-12-1034 minThe Startup DentistSecuring Funding: Building a Solid Financial Foundation for Your Dental Startup**Introduction to the Topic:** Stephen Trutter discusses the critical steps in securing funding for a dental startup, emphasizing how preparation and planning can lead to better financial outcomes. This episode equips aspiring practice owners with practical advice for navigating lender discussions and budgeting effectively.**Key Points Discussed:** - Preparing your finances: Understanding your cash flow, reserves, and student loan implications. - Crafting a business plan to impress lenders and maximize funding potential. - Comparing bank options: Asset-based vs. projection-based lenders and what to prioritize. - Spending strategies: Balancing...2024-11-2629 minThe Startup DentistStart-Up vs. Buying: The Ultimate Guide to Dental Practice OwnershipStephen Trutter, CEO of Ideal Practices, welcomes special guest Brian Hanks, founder of The Gentle Buyer Advocates and author of *How to Buy a Dental Practice*, to dive into one of the most debated topics in the dental world: Should you start a new dental practice or buy an existing one? Together, they explore both avenues, weighing the advantages and challenges of each.**Key Points Discussed:**- Common misconceptions about buying a dental practice.- Key considerations for starting a practice from scratch.- The importance of practice ownership for career...2024-11-0543 min
The Dental MarketerDemystifying DIY: Startup Insights From Ideal Practice's CEO | Stephen Trutter | MMEDoes the DIY approach lead to success in the dental startup world? This Monday Morning Episode launches into the realities of starting a dental practice with insights from Stephen Trutter, president of Ideal Practices. Throughout the conversation, Stephen dispels common myths surrounding DIY methodologies and unveils critical insights into building a successful practice from the ground up. He emphasizes the indispensable role of demographics, advising against relying solely on generic ratios when choosing a location. Instead, understanding competition, patient trends, and the unique characteristics of a community can create a foundation for lasting success.Real estate considerations...2024-11-0400 minThe Startup DentistMastering the Business Side of Your Dental Startup with Proven SystemsIn this episode, Stephen Trutter talks with Stacy Peters, Director of the Startup MBA for Ideal Practices, about the crucial role business systems play in dental startups. While many dentists are confident in their clinical skills, running a successful practice demands mastery of the business side as well.*Key points discussed:*- The importance of business systems in dental startups- How to avoid common pitfalls that lead to struggling practices- Real-world examples of dentists who built thriving businesses with the right systems- Financial guidelines and team...2024-10-2243 min
The Dental AmigosEpisode 125 - Ideal Practice’s Stephen Trutter on the “Do’s and Don’ts” of Dental Start-UpsThis week, the Dental Amigos welcome returning guest Stephen Trutter, the CEO of Ideal Practices, a leading consulting firm for dental start-ups. Ideal Practices follows a proven process to guide dentists through every step of opening their start-up. Stephen Trutter has helped launch nearly 1,000 dental start-ups in his 20-year career.
Stephen discusses how to position yourself for a smooth transition into practice ownership starting as early as when you are an associate. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and negotiating the restrictions contained in your associate agreement that could impact and limit your future career. Then, he offers his insight...2024-10-0849 minThe Startup DentistUnlocking the Secrets to Insurance Credentialing for Dental Startups- Insurance credentialing vs. negotiating: Learn the difference between these two essential processes and how they impact your dental practice.- The importance of having experts assist with insurance credentialing to ensure accuracy and efficiency.- Timelines: Credentialing can take 3-6 months, so start the process as soon as you secure your real estate.- Credentialing strategies, including in-network vs. out-of-network, and how to decide what's best for your startup.- Tips for negotiating fee schedules and knowing when it’s worth paying for a negotiating service.
Contact In...2024-10-0119 minThe Startup DentistSmart Investments: Choosing the Right Equipment for Your Dental Startup**Introduction:** Welcome to today's episode, where Stephen Trutter is joined by Steve Burns, a senior advisor with over 30 years of experience in dental equipment and technology. Together, they explore how dentists can make smart equipment purchases for their startups, ensuring that investments align with both their clinical vision and financial constraints.- **Key Points Discussed:** 1. The importance of budget management when choosing dental equipment. 2. How to navigate promotions and avoid being oversold by vendors. 3. The benefits of phasing in technology over time, focusing on what adds immediate value. 4. How showroo...2024-09-1735 min
The Startup Dentist3 Strategies Dental Startups Can Use to Beat DSOsIntroduction to the Topic: Welcome back, associate dentists! If you're on the fence about whether to pursue a startup or an acquisition, this episode is for you. Today, we're diving into the David vs. Goliath story of dental startups versus corporate dentistry, offering insights on how you can make your dream practice a reality even in the face of big corporate competition.Key Points Discussed:Doctor-Patient Relationship:Importance of personalized care and building trust with patients.How maintaining strong patient relationships can provide a competitive edge over corporate practices.Choosing Your Patients:The advantage of targeting...2024-08-1026 min
The Startup DentistHow Dentists Can Dodge The Most Expensive Real Estate MistakesIn this episode of "The Startup Dentist," host Stephen Trutter dives into the critical topic of dental real estate. With real estate decisions being one of the most significant financial commitments for dental startups, Stephen provides essential insights to help you avoid costly mistakes.Key Points DiscussedImportance of Real Estate Decisions: Understanding how initial real estate choices impact your practice long-term.Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Why you should avoid flashy locations and instead focus on strategic positioning.Lease vs. Purchase: The pros and cons of leasing versus buying real estate and how to decide what's best...2024-06-2823 minThe Startup DentistThe Pros and Cons of Dental Startups vs AcquisitionChoosing between starting a new dental practice or acquiring an existing one involves weighing the freedom and creativity of a startup against the immediate functionality and existing patient base of an acquisition. Each path offers unique benefits and challenges that must align with your personal goals and professional aspirations.Interested in more detailed insights and experiences from dental professionals who have walked both paths? Tune into the full episode.
Contact Information and Social Media Links:Website: Ideal PracticesEmail: hello@howtoopenadentaloffice.comFacebook: Ideal PracticesInstagram: @idealpractices2024-06-1823 minThe Startup DentistHow to Get 100 Patients in Your First Month: Proven Marketing Strategies for Dental StartupsKey Points Discussed:Introduction to Startup Marketing StrategiesTiming and Budget for MarketingImportance of Tracked and Trackable EffortsCreating Compelling Marketing MessagesFocusing on Appointments vs. AwarenessEssential Ingredients for Successful MarketingMarketing AgencyGround MarketingCommunity EngagementReal-Life Success StoriesDr. Karl’s Social Media StrategyDr. Katie’s Achievement of 100 Patients in the First MonthConclusion and Key TakeawaysLinks and Resources Mentioned:Ideal Practices WebsiteFree Copy of The Startup Dentist Book
Contact Information and Social Media Links:Website: Ideal PracticesEmail: hello@howtoopenadentaloffice.comFacebook: Ideal PracticesInstagram: @idealpractices2024-05-3028 minThe Startup DentistHow to Avoid the Pitfalls of DIY Dental StartupsStarting a new dental practice is an exhilarating journey, filled with opportunities and, unfortunately, numerous potential pitfalls. Many dentists embark on this venture with a DIY mindset, only to encounter unforeseen challenges that can hinder their progress—or worse, jeopardize their business. In our latest podcast episode, "How to Avoid the DIY Pitfalls of Dental Startups," we peel back the curtain to learn the critical strategies that can help you avoid common mistakes and set a solid foundation for your practice.Understanding the Risks of a DIY Approach for Dental StartupsThe allure of doing it...2024-05-0924 minThe Startup DentistThriving Beyond Launch: 3 Strategies for Long-Term Dental Practice SuccessWelcome to the Startup Dentist Podcast! In this episode, we dive into three key elements essential for launching a successful dental practice: practice, profits, and purpose.However, our discussion goes beyond the basics. We explore how crafting a robust profit strategy is pivotal for practice success. I share actionable strategies for ensuring financial viability, from effective marketing to implementing efficient systems and fostering strong leadership within your practice.Yet, the true essence of practice ownership lies in its sense of purpose. Beyond monetary gains, real success stems from positively impacting your community and finding personal...2024-04-1955 minThe Startup DentistWhen is the right time to start your dental practice?Hey there! Welcome back to another episode of “The Startup Dentist Podcast”, where we're all about diving into the nitty-gritty questions of dentistry and practice ownership. Today's topic is a big one: When are you ready to be a practice owner? It's a question that's probably crossed your mind more than once, whether you're a seasoned associate or a dental school student dreaming about the future.I've been in the dental industry for nearly two decades, overseeing over 800 start-up practices, so trust me when I say I've heard this question a few times! And today, I want to s...2024-04-0924 min
Dental UnfilteredEpisode 15 - Unlocking Dental Startup Success w/ Stephen TrutterMatt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo are joined by Stephen Trutter from Ideal Practices as they delve into the realm of dental practice startups. Together, they explore the significance of ground marketing, the challenges posed by real estate, and the essential elements of starting a successful dental practice.2024-03-1343 min
Provide: The Path to Owning ItPractice, profits, and purpose: The 3 Ps of practice ownership, with Stephen TrutterWhen starting a healthcare practice, it's easy to get caught up in the details – the who, what, where, and when of opening your practice, so to speak..But have you stopped to think about the "why"?According to this week's guest, Stephen Trutter, too often the "why" of practice ownership is an afterthought – if it's considered at all.As CEO at Ideal Practices, a dental consulting firm that’s opened more than 3,000 practices, Stephen knows a thing or two about the topic.Throughout his 17 years in dentistry, Stephen has personally guided more th...2023-08-2326 minThe Startup Dentist3 Best Opportunities For 2020 StartupsIn this episode, Jayme will share a conversation that he had with dentistry’s top attorney and one of the top thought leaders in dentistry, about 3 best opportunities for 2020 startups in dentistry. A lot of associate dentists are wondering whether dental startups are too risky in the current economy because people are going through huge financial problems, but Jayme feels that the 3 opportunities are the best that he’s seen in over a decade. They include opportunities in real estate, construction budgets, and new patient acquisition.To discover those opportunities, Jayme and his team compared the realities in t...2020-04-2700 minThe Startup DentistStartup Demographics - PART 1In this episode, Jayme will have a conversation with three of the country’s leading startup demographics experts to share some startup demographics strategies and theories that have created some of the most successful startup practices. Just about everybody would agree that demographics have a significant role to play in the success of a startup. They can either positively or negatively affect a startup. But here's the problem. Most startup practices that struggle know how powerful demographics are, they know how to read the numbers on a demographics' information report, and most of them have even attempted to get a...2020-04-2148 minThe Startup DentistIntroduction To DemographicsIn this episode, Jayme will do an introduction to demographics for startup practices. Demographics is the study of people and as a dentist, you serve people. If you get demographics right, you’ll enjoy serving your patients, your startup will grow faster and you’ll become more profitable faster. That’s how crucial demographics are and why you must get it right from the beginning. In this introduction to demographics, Jayme will talk about how demographics in dentistry involve lots of data points. There is so much information to consider. Unfortunately, this whole process is simplified to a ratio...2020-04-2021 minThe Startup DentistFinancing For Startups - Part 2In this episode, Jayme and Stephen will do part two of financing for startups. They are going to cover three topics including the twists and turns of how to rank banks, whether it’s a good, safe and sound idea to buy a house, and how to identify the fastest path to paying off student loans. When it comes to ranking banks, there are a number of criteria that one should consider when they start to look through things regardless of whether their bank is large, regional, or local. Some of the criteria is the loan requirements which includes th...2020-04-1438 minThe Startup DentistFinancing For Startups - Part 1In this episode, Jayme will welcome back Stephen Trutter, the President of Ideal Practices and an experienced startup dentistry expert who has been a part of 650+ startups. Stephen has helped raise half a billion dollars in dental funding, and together they will dive into stage 2 of the 13 stages startup journey which covers financing for startups for associate dentists. Their discussion will be based on the structure and strategy of dental financing. Under structure, there will be three parts including rate-and-term, the approval myths, and the silver platter method. In the strategy part of the discussion, they will talk about...2020-04-1359 minThe Startup DentistThe GIVE Secret: Background Research For StartupsIn this episode, Jayme will share the backstory of the GIVE secret and his own personal backstory to give us a deeper insight into what GIVE is really all about and the power it wields in ensuring a higher level of success in dental practice ownership. A lot of dentists have attempted the GIVE secret but they’ve not had any results, while others are willing to do it but they feel like it’s a costly endeavor. Jayme’s backstory will serve a great resolution to that. It all started when he and his cousin started a company (unrela...2020-04-1017 minThe Startup DentistHow do I "Start" a Dental Startup? (Part 2)In this episode, Jayme will continue his conversation with Stephen Trutter, the President of Ideal Practices and an experienced startup dentistry expert who has been a part of 650+ startups. Stephen has been instrumental in the acquisition of half a billion dollars in dental financing for dental startups all over America. They will dive into the R in the KRG framework which represents what a practice is Known for, Remembered by, and what they Give. Figuring out the KRG is the single most important thing an associate dentist can do when they’re trying to set up a den...2020-04-0947 minThe Startup DentistHow Do I "Start" A Dental Startup? (Part 1)In this episode, Jayme will welcome Stephen Trutter, the President of Ideal Practices and an experienced startup dentistry expert who has been a part of 650+ startups. Stephen has been instrumental in the acquisition of half a billion dollars in dental financing for dental startups all over America. The two will start off by diving into the two things an associate dentist should avoid when they want to start a dental startup, and that is banking and real estate.A lot of consultants in the startup space advice potential startup dental practice owners to engage their banks for...2020-04-0845 minThe Startup DentistThe 13 Stage Guide for All StartupsIn this episode, Jayme will officially initiate the startup practice masterclass for doctors considering setting up their own practice, and he will start by diving into the first P of the three Ps he unveiled in episode one, which are, Practice, Profit, and Purpose. Practice refers to the act of opening up a practice and Jayme will share and discuss the 13 stage guide that it all boils down to. He will also talk through the biggest mistakes that startup practices make and reveal the three big promises that one must ensure they’re fulfilling.The first promise is...2020-04-0745 minThe Startup DentistMasterclass Curriculum and IntroductionIn this episode, Jayme will dive into what The Startup Dentist podcast is all about. He will introduce it as the masterclass made just for doctors considering startup practices and share some of the questions the podcast will answer for aspiring dental practice owners. A lot of doctors dream of owning their own practices but they never take any steps towards that because they feel that startups are too risky, or hear stories of doctors who failed in their startups and were even left in financial ruin. Others will actually make the move and start a practice, but they...2020-04-0614 min
GO LIVE w/ Joshua ScottStephen Trutter - Opportunity for Startup Practices (GO LIVE #9)Stephen Trutter, President of Ideal Practices, explains the unique nature of this season as it pertains to startup practices, and how there will be opportunities available to new practices that may never be available again in our lifetime. Read the Highlights: https://www.joshuascott.com/videos/opportunity-for-startup-practices GO LIVE is an interview show hosted by Joshua Scott. Episodes are hosted live every week on Facebook and include some of the dental profession’s top influencers and thought leaders. Learn more about Joshua Scott at joshuascott.com.2020-04-0346 minThe Startup DentistWelcome To The Startup Dentist Podcast with Jayme AmosWelcome to the beginning of The Startup Dentist podcast hosted by Jayme Amos. Learn more at: https://idealpractices.com
Contact Information and Social Media Links:Website: Ideal PracticesEmail: hello@howtoopenadentaloffice.comFacebook: Ideal PracticesInstagram: @idealpractices2020-02-0404 min
The Dental AmigosEpisode 6- Defining success in dentistry with amigo Stephen TrutterThe Dental Amigos are excited to host their amigo Stephen Trutter, who is a partner in Ideal Practices which is a highly-regarded consulting firm that works exclusively with start-up dentists. Over the course of his career, Stephen has helped over 500 dentists start up practices. In this episode, Rob and Paul chat with Stephen about how he defines dental success and the importance of a dentist’s ability to create culture in a dental practice. Of course, no discussion with a start-up practice consultant could be complete without talking about the always popular topic “start-up v. acquisition” to which Stephen provides a very...2018-05-3030 min