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Explore every episode of the podcast Just Say No To The DSO

Dive into the complete episode list for Just Say No To The DSO. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Season 2 Episode 9 - Who is Looking Out for You?15 Jul 202400:29:22
In this final episode of Season 2, Bob Spiel and Nate Williams emphasize the need for
dentists to critically assess DSO offers and understand the financial biases at play that
drive toward consolidation – while leaving dentists in the dust. Bob and Nate aim to
educate dentists and empower them to make decisions that align with their best
interests and long-term goals. Teasing Season 3, they promise deeper exploration through interviews with dentists who have resisted DSOs or exited them, sharing their experiences and insights. 
Season 2 Episode 8 - A Summary of Season 206 Jul 202400:23:44
Get ready for a candid and insightful chat as Bob Spiel and Nate Williams summarize
Season 2 of "Just Say No to the DSO" – foreshadowing the end of Season 2 (although
there will be one more bonus episode #9 coming.) In this episode, they dive deep into
the nitty-gritty of selling dental practices to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs),
offering up wisdom, wit, and a healthy dose of skepticism.
Episode 6 – The DSO Gold Rush: All that Glitters…13 Sep 202300:39:32
In this episode, the hosts discuss the nuances and complexities of joining Dental Service Organizations (DSO’s), particularly highlighting the illusion they create of community and unity. Although these groups promote the idea of collective strength, many doctors, after joining, still find themselves feeling isolated in their individual practices, realizing that the promised unity doesn't quite materialize.

The allure of equity is another theme, with many doctors being tempted to sell their practices for a sizable upfront sum that promises future financial freedom. However, the hosts argue that genuine freedom derives from maintaining autonomy over one's practice and life decisions. Selling leads to a loss of both control and freedom, putting the doctor in a restrictive employee position.

The episode touches upon the "fear of missing out" (FOMO) phenomenon. As doctors see their peers, especially successful ones, selling their practices, they feel mounting pressure to follow suit, fearing they might miss out on lucrative opportunities. Yet, the hosts draw an analogy to the gold rush, suggesting that in this dental "gold rush", like the gold rushes of old, it isn't the dentists who are profiting the most, but those brokering the deals.

Furthermore, the hosts bring to light the non-disparagement agreements doctors sign when joining Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). These agreements legally bind doctors, preventing them from sharing any negative experiences, which might explain the dearth of negative testimonials about DSOs.

Concluding, the episode emphasizes that while stories of regret about joining DSOs might be scarce due to various reasons, there are numerous tales of dentists who have stayed independent and found substantial financial and personal success.
Episode 5 – The Medical Mess: Are DSO’s Pulling Dentistry into the Same Swamp?13 Sep 202300:42:14
In this podcast episode, our hosts dive into the distinctions between the medical and dental industries. As the discussion unfolds, Nate interviews Bob drawing on his experience in medicine as a hospital and surgical center CEO, highlighting the trajectory in which medical doctors have found themselves, where doctors have lost almost all control over their careers, primarily becoming indirect government employees working for large hospital systems. They sound an alarm on the risk that if DSO’s are successful in dental industry consolidation, dentistry will follow a similar path, leading to government-driven pricing, and dentists and dental specialists becoming mere cogs in a larger machine. They argue that this outcome is both self-induced and avoidable.

Through personal anecdotes, Bob and Nate underscore the long-term relationships dentists build with their patients and the potential repercussions of capitulating to larger corporate entities. As the episode draws to a close, they pose a poignant challenge to dentists: to ponder deeply on the significance of preserving the integrity, autonomy, and quality of the dental industry for the sake of its future. They encourage reflection on the consequences of dentistry following the path of medicine and the impact of such a devolution to future dentists, their teams, and patients.
Episode 4 – The Make-Up of a DSO Offer: “Caveat Venditor”13 Sep 202300:41:36
Episode 4 dives deep into the financial intricacies and emotional pressures associated with Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). Initially, the hosts explore the selling tactics of DSOs, emphasizing the allure of immediate money. These tactics involve offering dentists a significant sum upfront for their practices. However, they caution that this is merely an advance against future earnings, not a bonus. Bob and Nate highlight that the DSOs expect the dentists to earn back this money (i.e. pay it back) by working for the corporation over a designated period, often amounting to five years. In essence, the dentists are trading their practice's autonomy for immediate financial gratification – while in the end the autonomy is gone and so is the money.

Drawing parallels to emotional purchases, such as the decision to buy new golf clubs even when old ones suffice, the hosts discuss the human tendency to justify decisions emotionally made with logic afterward. The decision to sell to a DSO is framed similarly – an emotionally driven decision that many dentists come to regret, especially when locked into multi-year commitments without a clear vision of the future except knowing in leaving the DSO they almost always are contractually restricted from working within the same area.

Throughout the conversation, Bob and Nate underline the substantial risks for dentists: loss of their asset (the practice), loss of autonomy, the financial loss from repaying the upfront money, and emotional regret. Conversely, DSOs and those facilitating these deals stand to benefit significantly, with the former acquiring valuable assets and the latter reaping hefty commissions.

This episode culminates with a strong message advocating for dentists to retain their practices. While the initial offer from a DSO might seem enticing, in the long-term, holding onto one's practice is presented as the more financially sound and personally/professionally rewarding decision.
Episode 3 – Wealth and DSO Tactics: What You Don’t Know Will Hurt You07 Sep 202300:54:12
In this episode, hosts Bob Spiel and Nate Williams focus on the impact of Dental Support
Organizations (DSOs) on the dental industry and their mission to dissuade dentists from selling
their practices to DSOs. They address various aspects of this issue in three parts:

1. Bob and Nate emphasize the difference between wealth as cash and true wealth, which they
define as owning productive capacity, particularly in the context of dental practices. They
discuss the risks associated with selling a dental practice, such as rapid depreciation in value
when the dentist is no longer actively involved.

2. Bob and Nate explore the factors contributing to the rapid growth of DSOs, including
government funding during the COVID-19 pandemic, low interest rates, and surplus capital-
seeking investment opportunities. They share a personal anecdote about a dentist who chose
not to sell his practice to provide his son with an independent dentistry opportunity.

3. Bob and Nate delve into the tactics used by DSOs to entice dentists into selling their
practices, such as offering equity in the buying DSO and recruiting influential doctors to create
network effects. They express concerns about doctors being complicit in the consolidation of
power by DSOs and debunk the myth that selling to a DSO benefits a dentist in the long run.

Overall, Bob and Nate encourage listeners to share their message with colleagues and friends in
the dental industry, raising awareness about the potential downsides of selling to DSOs and the
importance of considering the long-term implications. With any questions, please email us at questions@justsaynotothedso.com
Episode 2 – Why Dentists Should Not Sell to a DSO07 Sep 202300:35:32
In this podcast episode, Bob and Nate discuss the reasons why dentists should not sell their dental practices to Dental Support Organizations (DSOs). Nate emphasizes the importance of owning a business and the wealth generated by owning productive assets, such as a dental practice. He also highlights the unique nature of dentistry, where the dentist's trained mind and hands are the product. Bob and Nate discuss the benefits of owning a dental practice, including control over how the work is done, freedom to manage time, and the ability to create and maintain the practice's culture. They acknowledge that owning a business comes with increased responsibility, but they believe it's worth it for those who have the desire and courage to take on the challenge.

Bob and Nate mention that many aspects of practice management that DSO’s tout they can take off a dentist-owners plate, such as accounting, payroll, HR support, and marketing, can be delegated or hired out. They stress the importance of investing in oneself and seeking coaching and consulting help to build a team that supports the dentist's vision while retaining ownership and control of the practice.

They share examples of successful dentists who have built thriving practices by delegating non-clinical tasks and focusing on their clinical expertise. They also discuss the downside of not delegating and being the bottleneck in practice growth. Ultimately, their experience shows selling to a DSO will almost always lead to making less money while having less control over the practice, and ultimately giving control of the dental industry to non-dentist business people who are ultimately in it to harvest profits, not care for patients or create healthy relationships with doctors or their teams.

Overall, the episode encourages dentists to retain ownership of their practices, embrace the challenges, and build a team that allows them to maintain control while enjoying the financial benefits of ownership. With any questions, please email us at questions@justsaynotothedso.com.
Episode 1 – What Is “Just Say No to the DSO”?07 Sep 202300:24:39
In this episode, Bob Spiel and Nate Williams introduce their podcast "Just Say No to the DSO." They discuss their purpose, which is to persuade dental practice owners not to sell their practices to Dental Support Organizations (DSOs). Their experience is that selling to a DSO will almost always lead to making less money while losing control over their practice and life, and ultimately give industry control to non-dentist businesspeople.

They share their backgrounds, with Nate being a dental CPA and financial planner at his nationwide, multi-specialty firm with over 300 dental clients, and Bob having an MBA and 15 years of experience consulting in dentistry. Before consulting in dentistry Bob was a hospital and surgical center CEO, so he had a front row seat to the corporatization of medicine.

They emphasize that they have no financial interest in promoting this message and are dedicated to helping dentists protect their independence and the dental industry as a whole. They also outline the topics they plan to cover in upcoming episodes, such as the consequences of selling to a DSO, understanding DSO players and tactics, and the trajectory of the dental industry.

The podcast aims to provide dentists with information to make informed decisions about their practices. With any questions, please email us at questions@justsaynotothedso.com.
Welcome to Just Say No To The DSO23 Aug 202300:03:39
In the trailer we share who Bob Spiel and Nate Williams are, why we are so passionate about the future of dentistry being owned by dentists and not corporations, and what are the questions Season One addresses.
Season 2 Episode 7 - Just Say No to DSO: Analyzing Common Sales Pitches14 Jun 202400:23:37
Bob and Nate encouraging dentists to reject DSO sales pitches and maintain ownership of their practices for long-term success. Reiterating the importance of staying engaged in their work and understanding that DSOs won't overpay or make practice ownership easier.

Season 2 Episode 6 - DSO Contract “Gotcha’s”29 May 202400:20:48
In this episode of “Just In this episode of "Just Say No to the DSO," hosts Bob Spiel and
Nate Williams dive deep into the subject of DSO sale and employment contracts, and
the surprises that dwell inside each.
The discussion underscores how DSO contracts are driven by dollar signs and the
DSO’s need to exert control in the business relationship.
Season 2 Episode 5 - The Truth about DSO Ownership Equity16 May 202400:32:50
In this episode of Just Say No to the DSO hosts Bob Spiel and
Nate Williams dive deep into the subject of ownership in a DSO, or what is called
“Equity”. They describe why Equity is a self-made target that allows DSO’s to
dramatically overstate their value, which leads dentists to believe their ownership is
worth much more than it is.

The discussion underscores the lack of transparency among DSO valuations, and why
self-defined Equity is open to abuses. Ultimately, the episode aims to empower dentists
to make informed decisions that safeguard their autonomy and financial well-being.
Season 2 Episode 4 - Do DSOs Actually Overpay (Part 2)08 May 202400:38:06
In this episode of "Just Say No to the DSO" hosts Bob Spiel and Nate Williams dive deep
into the deceptive tactics employed by Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) to lure
dentists into unfavorable agreements. Through real-life examples and a critical analysis
of a $29 million DSO offer, they highlight the hidden costs and risks that dentists often
overlook in pursuit of financial gain.

The discussion underscores the importance of diligence and transparency in evaluating
DSO deals, urging dentists to seek independent advice and scrutinize all terms before
relinquishing control of their practices. Ultimately, the episode aims to empower
dentists to make informed decisions that safeguard their autonomy and financial well-
being.
Season 2 Episode 3 - Do DSOs Actually Overpay for Practices?26 Apr 202400:24:58
The podcast is episode three of Season 2 for “Just Say No to the DSO." Hosted by Bob
Spiel and co-host Nate Williams, it discusses reasons why dental practice owners
should avoid selling to Dental Support Organizations (DSOs).

This podcast episode is a warning to dentists who are thinking about taking DSO deals.
The hosts do a deep dive into a $20 million DSO deal and reveal how deceptive these
deals can be. They stress the importance of being critical and skeptical of these deals.
The goal of the podcast is to help dentists make informed decisions about DSO deals
and keep control of their practices.


Season 2 Episode 2 - What is EBITDA, and Why do DSO’s Lean On It for Practice Purchases?16 Apr 202400:21:06
In this podcast episode of "Just Say No to the DSO," hosts Bob Spiel and Nate Williams discuss the importance of dentists maintaining control of their practices rather than selling to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs).  

They emphasize that smart business people don't overpay for practices and that DSOs are adept at making dentists think they're getting a great deal when, in reality, they may be giving away their practices for little to no value.  

The hosts explain the concept of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization) and how DSOs structure deals in a way that essentially allows them to acquire practices for free or at a minimal cost to themselves.  

They warn dentists to be cautious of promises made by DSOs regarding equity and future earnings, as these promises may not materialize. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next installment, where they will delve deeper into the realities of DSO deals. 
Season 2 Episode 1 - Are we still convinced to Just Say No to the DSO09 Apr 202400:29:31
The podcast is episode one of Season 2 for “Just Say No to the DSO"; Hosted by Bob Spiel and
co-host Nate Williams, it discusses reasons why dental practice owners should avoid selling to
Dental Support Organizations (DSOs). Bob Spiel has an MBA and is a practice management
consultant, while Nate Williams is a dental CPA. They have both been in dentistry for over 15
years.

Key points discussed: Introduction: Bob and Nate introduce themselves, emphasizing their
experience in dentistry and financial consulting.

Reasons to Avoid DSOs: They discuss three prevailing myths about selling to DSOs:
● Myth 1: Selling to a DSO will make more money.
● Myth 2: Selling to a DSO means earning passive income from others'; work.
● Myth 3: Selling to a DSO will make life easier.

They then dive into:

Reflection on Season 1: Bob and Nate reflect on Season 1's topics, emphasizing the
importance of owning a dental practice for long-term wealth.

Changes in the Industry: They discuss the rapid growth of DSOs and the
challenges they face, such as contract expirations and recruitment difficulties.

Case Study: Bob and Nate share a real-life example of a DSO facing financial
difficulties and restructuring, highlighting the risks associated with selling to DSOs.

Lessons Learned: They draw parallels with the medical industry's shift towards
corporatization and caution against losing control over one's practice and profession.

Preview of Season 2: Bob and Nate outline the topics to be covered in Season 2,
including financial principles, contract analysis, equity considerations, and common
pitfalls.

Conclusion: Just Say No to the DSO! If you have any questions, please send them to
questions@justsaynototheDSO.com

Overall, the episode serves as a warning against the potential pitfalls of selling private dental
practices to DSOs and provides insights to help dentists make informed decisions about their
practices'; future.
Episode 7 – Season 1 Wrap Up and FAQs13 Sep 202300:52:39
Concluding Season 1, the conversation focuses on the complexities and challenges associated with dentists selling to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). Many dentists who engage in these DSO partnerships find themselves literally "paying back" their earnings over extended periods, without reaping any significant benefits unless their DSO is gobbled up (i.e. acquired) by a larger DSO. This model has an alarming turnover rate, with about 70% of engaged dentists leaving within the first two years, suggesting widespread discontent among the dentists who work within DSOs. While it is argued that one need for DSOs arises as dental graduates might not be ready for private practice because of modern dental education, many leave due to the unsatisfactory work environment.

Bob and Nate further stress how the role of the dentist in a practice remains paramount. Their intrinsic value lies in the care they provide, and the episode emphasizes the vast growth and development opportunities available within the dentistry field. Throughout their careers, dentists have the unique opportunity to grow significantly in their clinical skills, and also grow in managerial, interpersonal, and leadership capabilities.

The hosts passionately advise dentists to retain ownership of their practices and be cautious of the DSO model's allure. They anticipate potential challenges for DSOs in the future, especially in retaining top-tier talent and managing the associated financial constraints. Concluding the episode, there's a call to challenge the conversation about DSOs in the dental community, placing emphasis on individual dental practices over corporate DSO models.
Season 3 Episode 2 - The Response to the Chip Fichtner Interview20 Jan 202501:03:38
After our amazing interview with Chip Fichtner, we've let the dust settle a bit and had time to digest as well as think over what was said. Bob and Nate discuss what iDSOs are really offering dentists and how the math cannot compute. 
Season 3 Episode 1 - Interview with Chip Fichtner20 Jan 202501:26:36
We are back for an amazing start to season 3. Bob and Nate sit down with one of the biggest iDSO brokers in the world, Chip Fichtner. This is an amazing interview to showcase what the otherside is thinking and trying to sell.
Season 3 Episode 5 - Jason Wood Interview Part 221 Feb 202501:00:48
Here the amazing conclusion to the conversation between attorney Jason Wood and Nate as they disect where deals seem to stop making sense. 
Season 3 Episode 4 - Jason Wood Interview Part 121 Feb 202500:48:09
Just Say No to the DSO is coming off of some hot interviews and following up with experts all over the country to go over the details and discerne between fact and fiction. Nate sits down with attorney Jason Wood in order to dive deep into DSO deals. Here the amazing back and forth and find out where they agree and where they don't. Part 2 will follow shortly. 
Season 3 Episode 3 - DSO Deal Case Study17 Feb 202500:44:33
After the Chip interview, Bob and Nate breakdown an actual DSO deal offer in order to get a better idea and understanding at what the tangible numbers look like. We wish we were making this stuff up…but we aren’t.
Season 3 Episode 7 - Scott Haley From Premier Orthodontics Practices Interview07 Mar 202501:11:30
Full steam ahead with no going back! The show is picking up incredible momentum thanks to our great listeners. Nate grabs another incredible guest this week in Scott Haley from Premier Orthodontics Practices. Scott has heard about the great work being done on Just Say No and wanted to hear it directly from the sources. 
Season 3 Episode 6 - John Van Leeuwen Interview28 Feb 202501:11:59
How do professionals begin and interact with the dental industry? So many great people from various backgrounds are attracted to this amazing field and we have one of the best today. John Van Leeuwen joins the crew remotely today for an awesome interview. 
Season 3 Episode 9 - Dr Aaron Swapp from Swapp Orthodontics Part 217 Mar 202500:55:40
Here is part 2 of our great interview with Dr. Aaron Swapp. The conversation gets very dialed in between Nate and Dr Swapp. 
Season 3 Episode 8 - Dr Aaron Swapp from Swapp Orthodontics Part 117 Mar 202500:52:42
Nate is back traveling around the country in order to get the best interviews with the best professionals. We were put in touch with Dr Aaron Swap in order to have a great discussion on if...with a big if...DSOs are ever worth it? As well, how do things apply to orthodontics and what is really needed to run an amazing practice? Tune in for another great episode. 
Season 3 Episode 11 - Dr. Robert M McNamara Interview21 Apr 202500:53:31
The hits continue at Just Say No, Bob interviews esteemed MD Dr. Robert McNamara who is a professor and Chair of Emergency Medicine at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University to go over the eerie similarities between the corporate involvement in emergency medicine and dental practices. The similarities are not just skin deep. 
Season 3 Episode 10 - Jason Wood is Back Part 206 Apr 202500:47:55
Super star guest Jason Wood hops back in the ring with Nate in order to clean up some lingering questions and try to address some long standing fallicies from a previous, high profile interview. He brings the info with receipts every time he visit's the DSO show. 
Season 3 Episode 10 - Jason Wood is Back Part 106 Apr 202500:45:04
Super star guest Jason Wood hops back in the ring with Nate in order to clean up some lingering questions and try to address some long standing fallicies from a previous, high profile interview. He brings the info with receipts every time he visit's the DSO show. 
Season 4 Episode 3 - The Risks of Selling Your Practice02 Aug 202500:23:36
In this episode, Bob and Nate discuss the evolving landscape of dental service organizations (DSOs) and the implications for private practice owners. They explore the risks associated with selling to DSOs, the changing nature of DSO offers, and the importance of retaining control over one's practice. The conversation highlights the historical context of DSO contracts, the value of dentists in practice ownership, and the potential pitfalls of partnering with DSOs.
Season 4 Episode 2 - The DSO Dilemma: A Cautionary Tale21 Jul 202500:28:52
Bob and Nate continue discussing the implications of selling dental practices to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). They argue that selling to a DSO can lead to financial loss and loss of control for dentists. The conversation highlights the hype surrounding DSOs, the influence of celebrity endorsements, and the pressure tactics used to encourage practice sales. The hosts emphasize the importance of maintaining ownership and the potential pitfalls of selling practices, urging dentists to consider their long-term financial independence. Put down the margaritas, understand your true value and make it work for yourself!
Season 4 Episode 1 - Navigating the Dental Landscape: Ownership vs. DSO16 Jul 202500:29:43
In this episode of 'Just Say No to the DSO', hosts Bob Spiel and Nate Williams discuss the implications of the DSO movement in dentistry. They emphasize the importance of private practice ownership, the challenges faced by dental practice owners, and the impact of insurance and government intervention on the industry. The conversation highlights the benefits of maintaining control over one's practice and the potential pitfalls of selling to a DSO.
Season 3 Episode 16 - Away Interview With Gary Bird30 Jun 202501:32:13
Nate ventures out into the wilderness and is guest with Gary Bird for today's episode. This is a collabortive project and highlights the great being done to further the conversation around dentistry and it's future. 


For those not familiar, Gary Bird is the founding owner of SMC National, the dental industry’s top-rated marketing partner chosen by more than 60,000 dental professionals. A recognized thought leader, Gary hosts the popular shows Dental Marketing Theory and Dental Marketing Goat, where he shares evidence-based strategies that help practices grow revenue, attract high-value patients, and build winning teams. Under his leadership, SMC delivers performance-focused marketing (no restrictive long-term contracts) and data-driven growth maps that turn chaos into predictable results.

Want to learn more about SMC?  https://bit.ly/4kkRubd

Season 3 Episode 15 - Dr Lou Berman Interview20 Jun 202500:43:22
In this inspiring conversation, Bob and Dr. Lou Berman delve into the complexities of the DSO landscape, particularly within the field of endodontics. They discuss the financial implications of joining a DSO, the role of key opinion leaders in shaping the industry, and the impact of corporate models on patient care. Dr. Berman shares his insights from over 41 years in the field, emphasizing the importance of maintaining control over one's practice and the need for dental professionals to seek expert guidance before making significant career decisions. The discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities within the dental industry, advocating for a more informed approach to practice management and patient care.
Season 3 Episode 14 - Dr Mila and Daniel Cohen Interview16 Jun 202500:41:14
In this conversation, Bob hosts Daniel and Mila Cohen, who share their journey of building a successful independent dental practice. They discuss the challenges and rewards of partnership, the importance of defining roles, and the strategies they implemented to ensure effective management and accountability within their practice. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, utilizing resources, and the need for clarity in leadership to foster a thriving business environment. In this conversation, Daniel and Mila discuss the challenges and strategies of building a successful dental practice post-COVID. They emphasize the importance of creating a strong team culture, the value of participation among team members, and the need for trusted advisors. The discussion also touches on exit strategies, the cons of selling to a DSO, and the significance of viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Ultimately, they highlight the importance of fostering a problem-solving culture within the team to ensure sustainable success. 
Season 3 Episode 13 - Dr Jill Tanzi and Dr Kristine Grazioso Interview26 May 202500:36:04
We are in for a double treat today as Bob interviews two incredible dentists, Dr Jill Tanzi and Dr Kristine Grazioso. Not only are we staying on the east coast for this episode, both of these amazing practitioners are passionate about dentistry and helping the patient get the best care. They are board and founding members of the Alliance for Independent Dentists, a nationwide group of volunteer dentists committed to educating dentists and the public about the benefits of Independent Dentistry. None of our board members are paid by the AID, ensuring that all dues and donations serve our community directly. Listen in for an amazing episode. 
Season 3 Episode 12 - Dr Eric Block Interview14 May 202500:25:28
Bob is back and rolling with another great guest. We are headed to the east coast, just outside of Boston with Dr Eric Block. Dr. Block is a member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. These type of credentials make him a perfect candidate to be courted by several major DSOs who are looking to add a talented dentist to their roster. However, Eric decided to stay in business for himself with amazing results. Hear his great story today! 
Special Episode - You Are The Brand with Steven J Anderson08 Aug 202500:53:36
In this conversation, Bob Spiel and Steven J Anderson delve into the evolving landscape of dentistry, particularly focusing on the impact of Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) on the profession. They discuss the importance of grounding oneself in key principles before making decisions, the necessity of understanding one's market, and the significance of mastering patient interactions. The conversation emphasizes the need for dentists to surround themselves with the right people, continually improve their leadership skills, and build their personal brand. Additionally, they highlight the value of mastermind groups in fostering growth and decision-making. Ultimately, the discussion advocates for dentists to take control of their practices and careers, resisting the allure of DSOs by embracing their unique value in the healthcare landscape.
Season 4 Episode 6 - Listener Question: Practice Transition Walkthrough07 Sep 202500:21:54
In this episode of 'Just Say No to the DSO', hosts Bob and Nate discuss the complexities of transitioning dental practices, particularly for those with multiple locations. They address listener questions about ownership options, financing, and the importance of goodwill in practice valuation. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear pathways to ownership and the potential pitfalls of seller financing, while also exploring strategies for divesting practices effectively.
Season 4 Episode 5 - The Art of Transitioning Your Dental Practice25 Aug 202500:22:22
Bob and Nate discuss the complexities of transitioning a dental practice without selling to a DSO. They explore the concept of a walk away sale, addressing common uncertainties and fears among practice owners. The conversation also debunks prevalent myths about the dental market, particularly regarding younger dentists' willingness to own practices and the availability of financing for buyers. The hosts emphasize the importance of hiring qualified brokers and being realistic about expectations during the selling process.
Season 4 Episode 4 - Embracing Uncertainty: The Reality of Dental Practice Transitions16 Aug 202500:34:23
In this conversation, Bob and Nate discuss the complexities of transitioning a dental practice, particularly focusing on the implications of selling to a DSO versus bringing on an associate. They explore the emotional and financial uncertainties that dentists face when considering their exit strategies, emphasizing the importance of planning and understanding the realities of practice management. The discussion highlights the pros and cons of various transition options, including the challenges of hiring associates and the need for a clear vision of the future of the practice.
Too Big to Sell: Myth vs Reality15 Nov 202500:25:55
The conversation explores the myth surrounding the belief that dental practices are too large to sell to private buyers. It delves into the origins of this misconception and its impact on the dental community, emphasizing that size should not deter practice owners from considering private buyers.
Practice Transition Advice with Dan and Aaron Lewis30 Oct 202501:13:27
In this conversation, Nate speaks with Dan and Aaron Lewis about the complexities of dental practice transitions, particularly focusing on the implications of selling to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). They discuss the emotional aspects of practice transitions, the financial realities of selling to DSOs versus maintaining private practice, and the importance of relationships in the dental industry. The Lewis family emphasizes the need for education and awareness among dentists regarding their options and the potential pitfalls of DSO partnerships.
A Very Important Math Lesson17 Oct 202500:28:01
Bob and Nate are back to discuss the common misconception that DSOs pay more for dental practices than private buyers and they are bringing receipts. They delve into the concept of EBITDA, explaining its significance in practice valuation and how it impacts the financial outcomes for practice owners. Through a hypothetical example, they illustrate the true costs associated with selling to a DSO, revealing that many dentists may end up paying more than they realize. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial implications of selling a practice and encourages dentists to maintain control over their practices.

Away Game with the Orthodontic Pearls Podcast and Nate Williams17 Mar 202601:27:58
Nate sits down with the Orthodontic Pearls podcast in order to give his take on owning your own practice and why to stay away from selling out to PE and DSO groups. It's a full panel lineup with Drs. Chris Teeters, Andy Sarpotdar, and Brian Anderson.
The Emperor Has No Clothes12 Mar 202600:33:36
This episode features a candid discussion on the realities of DSOs in dentistry, highlighting industry failures, ethical concerns, and the importance of dentists making informed decisions about their practices. Hosts Bob Nate share insights, stories, and call for transparency and honesty among dental professionals. Bottom line...DSOs suck
Right Up to the Edge and Back with Dr. Joe Feller28 Feb 202601:19:12
In this conversation, Nate and Dr. Joe Feller discuss the complexities and challenges faced by orthodontists when considering selling their practices to DSOs. Dr. Feller shares his personal journey in orthodontics, his experiences with DSOs, and the reasons he ultimately decided against selling his practice. The discussion highlights the emotional and financial stakes involved in such decisions, the misleading nature of DSO promises, and the consequences faced by colleagues who chose to sell. The conversation serves as a cautionary tale for practitioners contemplating similar paths. In this conversation, Nate and Dr Feller discuss the implications of private equity in dental practices, particularly focusing on the challenges and stressors faced by orthodontists who sell their practices to DSOs. They explore the false promises of wealth and ease, the reality of corporate meddling, and the importance of maintaining ownership and control over one's practice. Dr. Feller shares insights on the emotional toll of selling a practice and the value of community and support among private practitioners. The discussion culminates in a call to prioritize patient care and ethical practices over financial gain.
When Your Reputation Precedes You with Jonathan Martin18 Feb 202600:44:04
In a conversation between two of the most soothing voices on the internet, Bob Spiel interviews Jonathan Martin, a CPA with extensive experience in dental transitions. They discuss the complexities of selling dental practices, the myths surrounding DSOs, and the importance of financial planning for dentists. Jonathan emphasizes that many dentists are not adequately prepared for retirement and often make significant financial decisions without proper representation. The discussion highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of all options before deciding to sell a practice, particularly to a DSO.
A Conversation With The Dental Banker Bob Affleck05 Feb 202601:06:09
In this conversation, Bob Affleck shares his extensive experience in the dental industry, discussing the implications of selling dental practices to DSOs. He highlights the challenges and regrets many dentists face after selling, particularly regarding autonomy and financial expectations. The discussion also covers the importance of leadership and business acumen for young dentists preparing them for practice ownership. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the current state of the dental industry and the future of practice ownership.
Right Up to the Edge and Back with Dr. Blake Maxfield14 Jan 202601:05:19
Nate sits down with Dr. Blake Maxfield on this amazing interview with a practicing doctor who went through the entire courting and recruitment process where he almost signed the dotted line for a DSO to purchase his practice. At the last minute, something didn't feel right and he backed out. Because he listened to his gut (and his wife) things are infinitely better in his life and current practice is booming. 
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