Nobody Told Me That! A Dental Podcast with Teresa Duncan

Teresa Duncan, speaker and corporate consultant

Teresa Duncan explores the dental business from behind-the-scenes of the industry to tackling management and business issues in the office. Show notes over at http://nobodytoldmethat.libsyn.com/

  1. MAY 1

    Things Every Dental Assistant Wants in 2026 (Dental Assistant Retention Secret)

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   What keeps great dental assistants loyal to a practice and why do so many leave? Julie Varney shares what dentists can understand about retention, respect, leadership, and building a team that wants to stay. We discuss career growth, communication, and what today's assistants actually want from the practices they join.   We then dig into what makes a dental practice worth staying in, from creating trust and offering education to avoiding the mistakes that drive good assistants away. We touch on workforce challenges, team dynamics, licensing, and the future of dental assisting. If you want stronger retention and a better dental team, this episode is for you!    Connect with Julie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dentalassistingeducation/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantsrock Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@julievarney YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dentalassisting Podcast: https://www.dentalassistantpodcast.com/   —-------------   Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com Take advantage of Early Bird pricing through July 4th!  ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. -------------   **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

    1h 12m
  2. APR 16

    The Truth About Running a Dental Practice in 2026

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   Dentistry is changing fast and most practices are either adapting or falling behind. From rising costs and staffing challenges to new technology and shifting patient expectations, what used to work no longer guarantees success.   In this episode, I brought back my friend Ted Osterer from Synergy for an honest conversation about what's really happening inside dental practices today. What's the impact of digital tools like scanners and AI? Is there a method to hiring and keeping quality staff? Why are some offices thriving while others are struggling? We get into all this plus the financial side of running a practice, including overhead and insurance limitations. It's a real and unfiltered look at the decisions we're making now to stay profitable and grow in our changing industry.   Connect with Ted   Synergy website: synergydentalpartners.com Contact number: 516-316-3671 —-------------   Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com Take advantage of Early Bird pricing through May 31st!  ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. -------------   **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt   #dental #dentalmarketing #digitalmarketing #dentistry #dentalpractice

    56 min
  3. APR 2

    How to Dominate AI Search Results in 2026 (Dental Marketing Tips)

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   If your dental marketing still focuses only on getting found by Google, you're already behind because today your real audience is not just patients. It's AI deciding whether your dental practice deserves to be recommended at all.   The dental marketing strategy shift right now is that visibility is no longer just about your website or traditional SEO but about how clearly your entire online presence tells a consistent story that AI can understand and trust. Search behavior is evolving fast, and while patients still use Google, more of them are relying on AI tools to ask specific questions like finding a gentle dental provider, clear aligner options, or a dentist with availability this week. These systems are not just scanning your website, they are analyzing your reviews, your social media content, your captions, your videos, and even how you respond to engagement. That means your digital marketing strategy has to become more intentional and more structured. Instead of chasing viral trends or entertainment driven posts, your focus should shift toward creating clear, specific, and repeatable content that reinforces what your practice actually does best.    When your captions include precise services, your reviews mention real patient experiences, and your content consistently reflects your core treatments, you are feeding AI the patterns it needs to confidently recommend your practice. At the same time, patients benefit because they are seeing more relevant, trustworthy information. This is why the balance of content is changing, with more emphasis on dental focused education and less on purely social posts. Add in the importance of online scheduling, accurate listings, and active review management, and it becomes clear that modern dental marketing is about building a complete, consistent digital footprint. The practices that win will not be the loudest or most viral, but the ones that are easiest for AI to understand and easiest for patients to choose.   Connect with Rita Zamora Newsletter: https://ritazamora.com/ Connect 90: https://connect90.com/   Article discussed in the podcast: Assessing #dentist Content on TikTok: Engagement, Quality, and Implications for Oral Health Care —-------------   Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com Take advantage of Early Bird pricing through May 31st!  ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. -------------   **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt   #dental #dentalmarketing #digitalmarketing #dentistry #dentalpractice

    53 min
  4. MAR 18

    I Taught Dentists Leadership (And I Learned This!)

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   Sometimes the most powerful management lessons come from honest conversations with dental professionals who are navigating the same challenges every day.   I'm sharing two recent post-lecture conversations that revealed common leadership struggles. One attendee shared how exhausted she felt in her role but also felt guilty about even thinking of leaving because of perceived obligations to the dentist. That moment highlighted the difference between working from obligation and working from a true sense of calling. Obligation is often driven by guilt and responsibility, which can eventually lead to burnout. A calling, on the other hand, is connected to purpose and growth, where the work still feels meaningful even on difficult days.   Another attendee expressed concern that she was falling behind other managers who seemed to be doing more with systems, technology, and AI. That conversation highlighted the danger of comparison. Instead of measuring success against others, a more productive mindset is curiosity. Observing what other practices are doing can inspire ideas and learning without creating unnecessary pressure. Every dental office operates differently, and professional growth comes from staying curious, building connections, and focusing on progress within your own environment.   Visit my website: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/ —-------------   Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com/   —------------- Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more. Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026  in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today: 🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/   ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. ------------- Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!    **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt   #dentistry #dentalmanagement #dentaloffice #dentalleadership #dentalpodcast

    26 min
  5. FEB 18

    What Makes a Great Dental Office Manager (It's Not What You Think)

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   This episode with my friend Michelle Affanato breaks down what truly makes a great dental office manager, especially for those promoted from within or stepping into the role for the first time. We get honest about the realities of new manager energy ranging from being handed a title without training to suddenly managing former coworkers who now see you differently. Is this why so many managers feel overwhelmed early on? Maybe it's not because they are incapable but because expectations were never clearly defined.   Michelle shares real client experiences coaching new managers, including why asking for help is a strength and why being supported by the doctor is essential for long term success.   Connect with Michelle Affanato Instagram: @michelle_affinitymgmt Facebook: Affinity Management Consulting Podcast: Accelerate Your Dental Practice with Malika and Michelle Website: https://www.affinitymanagement.co/   —-------------   Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com/   —------------- Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more. Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026  in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today: 🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/   ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. ------------- Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!    **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt   #DentalOfficeManager #DentalLeadership #PracticeManagement #DentalTeamSuccess #DentalManagement #DentalGrowth

    1h 4m
  6. FEB 3

    Can Expanded Function Dental Assistants (EFDA) SOLVE The Dental Shortage?

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   Dental practices are being stretched thinner than ever, but the solution isn't just hiring more people. It's learning how to better use, train, and trust the team you already have.   In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Singleton - assistant extraordinaire -  to discuss how dental practices can adapt to staffing shortages by rethinking team roles and expanding responsibilities within proper scope of practice. We talked about expanded function dental assistants, smarter scheduling, access to care challenges, and the impact of investing in education and training. Stacey has built an accredited program all while working with dentists across states. Graduates seek out practices who elevate assistants, hygienists, and teams as a whole. Every dental office should be full of such colleagues!   Connect with Stacey    Website: https://www.talkteeth2me.com/ IG:  @talkteeth2me   Link we referenced:   DANB State Dental Assisting Requirements  ------------- Join us for Practice Management Power Day on Sept. 25 in Denver! This event is designed for experienced managers and dentists. Visit https://practicemanagementpowerday.com to register! —------------- Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more. Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026  in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today: 🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/   ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. ------------- Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!    **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt   #DentalPractice #DentalTeam #DentalStaffing #DentalAssistants #PracticeManagement #AccessToCare

    50 min
  7. JAN 20

    The Real Reason Dental Billing Is So Frustrating

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   Does dental billing feel harder than it used to? You're doing the same work, but claims stall, rules change, and nothing seems consistent anymore. My friend and Dental Revenue Network member Brooke Bird joins me to break down why that's happening.   The rules keep changing, knowledge is scattered, and practice management systems haven't kept up all that well. Why does working on claims now feel like detective work? Different payer quirks and clearinghouse changes have quietly slowed cash flow. What are your options? Brooke and I consider what's really happening behind aging accounts, leased networks, and unpaid claims. Hopefully our discussion can help you firm up your systems!    As promised, grab your Insurance Compass here:  https://birdseyebilling.com/insurance-compass   Connect with Brooke Bird  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550209355734 IG: https://www.instagram.com/birdseyebillingdental/ LinkedIn (Brooke Bird): https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-bird-298ba3127/ LinkedIn (Birdseye Billing Dental): https://www.linkedin.com/company/birdseye-billing Website: https://birdseyebilling.com/ ------------- Join us for Practice Management Power Day on Sept. 25 in Denver! This event is designed for experienced managers and dentists. Visit https://practicemanagementpowerday.com to register! ------------- Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more. Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026  in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today: 🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/   ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. ------------- Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!    **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt #DentalBilling #DentalInsurance #DentalOfficeLife #DentalManagement #DentalAR #DentalPractice #DentalAdmin #DentalRevenue

    49 min
  8. JAN 8

    Special Episode: Chew On This Trends for 2026

    More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter   What will dentistry really look like in 2026? Teresa Duncan and Kevin Henry cut through the noise to unpack the economic, workforce, insurance, and technology trends that will shape dental practices sooner than many expect.   They take a data-driven look at trends such as persistent staffing shortages and rising labor costs to the growing role of AI. Compliance risk is increasing and practices face mounting profitability pressure. How can we refocus on business fundamentals while  adapting to shifting patient expectations? This webinar replay can help you be proactive heading into 2026!    Connect with Kevin Henry: www.KevinSpeaksDental.com   Connect with Teresa Duncan: www.OdysseyMgmt.com   Chew On This Podcast Playlist here! https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJF_kSfpA7sJHVgO0lojChMhGRiYlIb3Z   ------------- Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more. Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026  in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today: 🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/   ------------- I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/ ------------- Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.  ------------- My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.  ------------- Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses. ------------- Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!    **If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!** YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt #ChewOnThis #DentalPodcast #Dentistry #DentalIndustry #DentalAI #FutureOfDentistry #DentalOfficeManagement #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalTrends #DentalInsurance #PatientExperience #DentalTeam #Dentistry2026

    1h 3m
4.7
out of 5
55 Ratings

About

Teresa Duncan explores the dental business from behind-the-scenes of the industry to tackling management and business issues in the office. Show notes over at http://nobodytoldmethat.libsyn.com/

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