ZenOne Podcast

Hosted by ZenSupplies

BusinessInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

111

Latest episode

Dec 2025

Language

EN-US

About the show

ZenOne Podcast is a place where we combine our 2 passions. One is to help improve dental practices through efficiency (think of streamlined process, organization, Zen in your office life) and interviewing interesting people.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

December 5, 2025Episode 1111 hr 11 min

Beyond the Histology Exam: A Journey from Dental School to Practice Owner

Keywordsdental practice, ownership, misconceptions, student debt, clinical skills, mentorship, leadership, dental school, learning, mistakesSummaryIn this engaging conversation, a group of new dental practice owners, Dr. Trevor Berg, Dr. Riley Hansen, Dr. Tyler Marlowe and Dr. Curtis Calder, share their experiences and insights on the journey of practice ownership. They discuss the misconceptions faced during dental school, the realities of student debt, and the importance of clinical skills. The conversation highlights the value of mentorship, the lessons learned from mistakes, and the significance of leadership in managing a dental practice. The group emphasizes the need for dental students to take control of their education and not be afraid of failure, ultimately inspiring each other to embrace the challenges and opportunities within the field of dentistry.TakeawaysPractice ownership is a journey filled with learning and growth.Misconceptions about corporate dentistry can mislead dental students.Student debt is a significant concern, but ownership can lead to faster repayment.Clinical experience is important, but you don't need years to start your practice.Learning from mistakes is crucial in the journey of practice ownership.Surrounding yourself with supportive peers can enhance your growth.Mentorship plays a vital role in shaping your career in dentistry.Leadership skills are essential for managing a dental practice effectively.It's important to prioritize your vision and goals as a practice owner.Embrace the challenges and learn from them to succeed in dentistry.Chapters(00:00) Introduction and Practice Ownership Journey(03:00) Misconceptions in Dental School(06:04) Corporate vs. Private Practice(08:55) Student Debt and Financial Realities(12:10) Clinical Experience and Readiness for Practice(14:48) Emergency Procedures and Practice Success(20:27) Navigating Dental Training and Skills Development(25:11) Reflections on Ownership and Regrets(30:08) Learning from Costly Mistakes(34:14) The Importance of Patience in Practice(39:15) Leadership Challenges in Dentistry(43:46) Navigating Team Dynamics and Remote Work(48:05) Leadership Challenges and Personal Growth(51:55) The Importance of Clear Communication in Leadership(56:01) Finding Inspiration and Mentorship in Dentistry(01:02:03) Embracing Ownership and Overcoming Fear of Failure

November 24, 2025Episode 1101 hr 7 min

“What I learned from running 16 locations: more offices is easier than 1”

SummaryDr. Nikki shares her inspiring journey from being a dental associate to owning multiple practices. She discusses the challenges and rewards of launching a mobile dental clinic, expanding her practice to Texas, and the importance of understanding business operations in dentistry. Nikki also addresses the unique challenges women face in leadership roles, the significance of mentorship, and the role of office managers in creating efficient practices. She emphasizes the need for financial literacy and offers actionable strategies for dental practice owners to grow their businesses. Additionally, Nikki highlights the benefits of using ZenOne for supply management, allowing for streamlined operations and more free time for practice owners.3 Main takeaways:Dive deep into your numbers (Account Recevables, Codes, EOB)Understand what's working and why it’s working. Learn to delegateStep 1 and 2 should give you confidence to tackle harder things or decisions.TakeawaysNikki emphasizes the importance of being a doer rather than just an advisor in the dental industry.She shares her journey from working in various practices to owning multiple dental clinics.The mobile dental clinic she launched provided essential services to underserved communities.Nikki discusses the challenges and rewards of expanding her practice to Texas.She highlights the importance of understanding business operations in running a successful dental practice.Nikki addresses the unique challenges women face in leadership roles within dentistry.She shares insights on the importance of mentorship and coaching for new dentists.Nikki discusses the role of office managers and the need for clear systems in dental practices.She explains how having multiple practices can actually reduce stress and improve efficiency.Nikki emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and understanding insurance processes for practice owners.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Nikki's Journey(02:46) The Birth of a Mobile Dental Clinic(06:01) Transitioning to Texas: A New Opportunity(09:04) Challenges of Managing Multiple Practices(11:56) Navigating Gender Dynamics in Dentistry(14:59) Building Successful Dental Practices(18:01) The Importance of Business Operations(21:13) Confidence in Expanding Practices(24:02) Financial Strategies for Growth(26:57) The Success Formula for Multiple Offices(32:41) Optimizing Dental Practice Roles(35:12) The Journey of Associate Dentists(37:41) Overcoming Business Challenges in Dentistry(40:29) The Importance of Financial Awareness(43:02) Training and Empowering Office Managers(46:11) Balancing Clinical and Business Skills(49:08) Actionable Steps for Practice Owners(01:00:17) Streamlining Supply Management with Zen One

September 30, 2025Episode 11039 min

2 Must-Do Procedures for Your Dental Startup Success

SummaryIn this conversation, Tiger Safarov and Aaron Nicholas discuss the essential procedures for building a successful dental practice, focusing on the importance of extractions and root canals. They explore the challenges faced by new dentists, the role of dental education, and the significance of gaining practical experience through mission trips. The discussion emphasizes the need for confidence in performing core procedures and the evolution of dental practices in today's landscape. Aaron shares insights on his courses, the tools and techniques that enhance efficiency, and the importance of protecting one's confidence as a practitioner.TakeawaysTwo key procedures are essential for building a dental practice.Getting patients out of pain increases the likelihood of return visits.Dental education often lacks sufficient hands-on experience.Confidence is crucial for performing dental procedures effectively.Mission trips can provide valuable practical experience for new dentists.Understanding the business side of dentistry is increasingly important.New dentists have more opportunities and resources than ever before.Courses can significantly reduce the time needed for procedures.Standardized techniques lead to better outcomes in dentistry.Protecting your confidence is vital for career growth. Chapters(00:00) Building a Successful Dental Practice(02:40) The Importance of Core Procedures(05:39) Challenges in Dental Education(08:29) Overcoming Hesitations in Practice(11:29) The Role of Mission Trips in Skill Development(14:10) Guidance for New Practitioners(19:05) Navigating the Challenges of Starting a Dental Practice(20:54) The Evolution of Dental Education and Resources(22:14) The Business Side of Dentistry: Opportunities and Challenges(23:25) Course Structure: What to Expect from Training(27:55) Efficiency in Root Canal Procedures(34:55) Protecting Your Confidence in Dental Practice

July 31, 2025Episode 10845 min

Navigating the Dental Economy: Insights and Challenges

SummaryIn this episode of the ZenOne Podcast, Tiger and Dr. Bryan Stimmler discuss the current state of the dental economy, skepticism towards ADA reports, and the challenges faced by dentists in both private practice and DSO settings. They explore the emotional toll on dentists, the impact of social media, and the importance of non-negotiables in practice management. The conversation highlights the need for dentists to adapt to changing market conditions and find fulfillment in their careers.TakeawaysThe dental economy is facing potential headwinds, but data shows consumer spending is up.Skepticism towards ADA reports is prevalent among dentists, especially post-COVID.The quality of new dentists is declining in both clinical skills and communication.Dentistry is a challenging profession, with many feeling disillusioned.Social media has changed the landscape of dentistry, leading to unhealthy comparisons.Insurance plays a significant role in the frustrations of dental practices.Rural practices often thrive despite the challenges faced by urban practices.Identifying non-negotiables in practice management is crucial for success.Dentists need to focus on building strong patient relationships to thrive.The future of dentistry holds both challenges and opportunities for those willing to adapt.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Dental Sector Challenges(03:01) Economic Confidence and Skepticism in Dentistry(05:59) The Changing Landscape of Dental Practices(08:59) Insurance Impact on Dental Practices(11:58) Emotional Responses and Career Satisfaction in Dentistry(14:59) The Role of Social Media in Dentistry(17:58) Disenchantment with the Dental Profession(21:07) The Future of Dental Practices and Insurance Dynamics(24:49) Understanding Insurance Challenges in Dentistry(27:31) The Importance of Health Consciousness(28:05) Navigating the Dental Practice Landscape(31:17) Finding Opportunities in Rural Dentistry(33:31) Positive Voices in Dentistry(35:41) Building a Successful Dental Practice(39:30) Non-Negotiables in Dental Business Management

July 10, 2025Episode 10740 min

Hacking the Dental Lab: A New Approach

SummaryIn this episode of the ZenOne podcast, Tiger and Ayrat delve into the intricacies of dental lab operations, focusing on the challenges faced with traditional labs and the advantages of in-house milling and digital workflows. They discuss the importance of consistent quality in dental restorations, the role of designers, and the cost-effectiveness of using milling centers. The conversation also touches on advancements in color matching techniques and the future of dental labs in the context of evolving technology.TakeawaysThe biggest problem in dental labs is inconsistent quality.In-house milling can provide better control over restoration quality.Communication with labs is crucial for successful outcomes.Milling centers offer factory-level production without high overhead costs.Digital workflows can significantly reduce turnaround times for dental restorations.Cost analysis shows significant savings when using milling centers.Quality of design can be better with overseas designers.Color matching remains a challenge in dental aesthetics.AI is becoming an integral part of dental design processes.The future of dental labs may involve more reliance on milling centers. Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Dental Lab Hacking(02:58) Challenges with Traditional Dental Labs(05:46) In-House Milling vs. Traditional Labs(08:58) The Role of Designers in Dental Restorations(12:06) Cost Analysis of Dental Restorations(14:49) Choosing the Right Milling Center(19:40) Understanding Crown Costs and Patient Expectations(22:25) The Advantages of Milling Centers(25:57) Comparing Costs: Traditional Labs vs. Milling Centers(29:11) The Future of Dental Labs and Milling Centers(33:11) Challenges in Color Matching and New Technologies(36:43) Optimizing Workflow and Cost Efficiency

May 6, 2025Episode 10638 min

Will Tariffs Reshape Dentistry?

SummaryIn this episode of the Zen One Podcast, host Tiger Safarov speaks with Rick Van Arnam, a partner at a global trade law firm, about the complexities of tariffs and their implications for the dental industry. They discuss the historical context of tariffs in the U.S., recent developments under the Trump and Biden administrations, and the specific impact on dental products. The conversation also covers the challenges faced by dental practices due to rising costs and the strategies they can employ to mitigate these effects. Finally, they explore the future outlook on tariffs and trade, emphasizing the need for dentists to stay informed and adaptable.About Rick Van Arnam, Jr: https://www.barnesrichardson.com/frederic-d-van-arnam-jr Sign up for weekly newsletter: https://barnesrichardson.us19.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ee2d5d12615d46d021dbf4c75&id=bac681c49a TakeawaysTariffs have a long history in the U.S., dating back to 1789.The China 301 tariffs have significantly impacted dental products.Recent tariff policies have created uncertainty for importers.Dentists may face increased costs due to rising tariffs on dental supplies.The importer is responsible for paying tariffs, not the foreign exporter.Mitigation strategies include negotiating with suppliers and diversifying vendors.The pause on certain tariffs may provide temporary relief for importers.Future trade negotiations could alter current tariff rates.Smaller distributors may struggle more than larger ones in the current market.Staying informed about tariff changes is crucial for dental practices.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Tariffs and Trade Law(01:12) Historical Context of Tariffs in the U.S.(03:12) The China 301 Tariffs Explained(07:01) IEPA Tariffs and Their Implications(09:55) Reciprocal Tariffs and Their Impact(12:14) Current Tariff Rates and Their Effects(16:04) Dental Products and Tariff Challenges(22:43) Mitigation Strategies for Dentists(28:18) Future of Tariffs and Trade Relations(36:43) Conclusion and Resources for Dentists

March 28, 2025Episode 10527 min

Revolutionizing Dental Distribution with Robotics [Actual Footage]

SummaryIn this episode of the ZenOne podcast, Tiger Safarov interviews Jordan Lorenz from Dental City about the implementation of automation and robotics in their warehouse. They discuss the evolution of Dental City, the importance of supply chain excellence, and how robotics enhance efficiency while maintaining human oversight. The conversation also covers the challenges faced during the project kickoff, the feedback received from the industry, and the customer-centric approach that drives their operations. Looking ahead, they explore the future of supply chain management in the dental industry and the importance of being prepared for unforeseen challenges.About Jordan Lorenz:- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-lorenz-b3bb311b/TakeawaysAutomation allows for faster order processing and shipping.Robotics enhance efficiency while maintaining human oversight.The success of the project relied on meticulous planning and execution.Feedback from the industry has been largely positive, with minimal complaints.A customer-centric approach is essential for distribution success.The integration of technology prepares the company for future challenges.Human verification remains crucial in the automation process.The culture within the organization supports innovation and adaptation.Maintaining a single distribution center can enhance quality control.The flexibility of being a privately held company allows for quick adaptations.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Automation in Dental Distribution(02:47) The Role of Robotics in Supply Chain Excellence(06:04) Human-Robot Collaboration in the Warehouse(09:06) Project Kickoff and Implementation Challenges(11:53) Feedback and Industry Response(14:59) Customer-Centric Approach in Distribution(17:58) Future of Supply Chain in Dental Practices

March 19, 2025Episode 10443 min

How to unlock remote staff in dentistry?

SummaryIn this conversation, Tiger Safarov and Christine Sison discuss the evolving landscape of remote talent in the dental industry. They explore the challenges and opportunities presented by remote work, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Christine shares insights on how dental practices can effectively integrate remote team members, the importance of technology in bridging communication gaps, and the necessity of measuring productivity. They also touch on the implications of AI in dental practices and the significance of having a US-based workforce. In this conversation, Christine and Tiger discuss the evolving landscape of remote work in dental practices. They explore the streamlined hiring process, the importance of onboarding, and the competition for global talent. Christine emphasizes the need for dental practices to adapt their organizational structures and job descriptions to maximize productivity and revenue. They also address the challenges of measuring performance for remote team members and the inertia within the dental industry regarding remote work. The conversation concludes with insights on navigating employee turnover and the importance of creating a new narrative around remote work in dentistry.About Christine Sison:- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-sison-a029a31/- Schedule a call: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ3Kcu8qdW_i7-YfW5wO3dFNd9jrvZYqiKkB4I-Xjy7iCwqFqz47Idqx7dvj8WXvjKl_zaPzzeGU - contact email: christine@swissmonkey.io - website: www.swissmonkey.ioTakeawaysOutsourcing in dentistry has been around for a long time.The COVID-19 pandemic has created a labor shortage in dental practices.Remote work can enhance patient experience if done correctly.Onboarding remote staff requires a structured process.Technology can facilitate communication between on-site and remote teams.Measuring productivity is essential for remote team success.Not all tasks should be outsourced; focus on non-patient-facing roles.Practices need to have clear workflows for remote integration.AI is poised to change the dental industry significantly.A US-based workforce can provide better service in dental practices. Remote hiring can significantly speed up the recruitment process.Onboarding can be completed quickly with the right technology.Global talent competition is reshaping job expectations in dentistry.Organizational structure is crucial for effective team management.Maximizing team productivity can lead to increased revenue.Performance metrics should be tailored to specific roles.Adopting remote work requires overcoming industry inertia.Building trust in remote work models is essential for success.Employee turnover can be managed with proper systems in place.Creating a flexible staffing model can help address workforce shortages.Chapters(00:00) The Rise of Remote Talent in Dentistry(03:05) Overcoming Control Issues with Remote Teams(05:48) Technology Bridging the Gap(09:10) Measuring Productivity and Performance(12:01) Identifying the Right Time for Remote Integration(15:03) Onboarding and Evaluating Remote Staff(18:09) The Importance of Location in Remote Staffing(20:53) The Future of AI in Dental Practices(23:18) Streamlined Hiring Process for Dental Practices(24:43) Onboarding and Interviewing Candidates(26:12) Global Talent Competition in Dentistry(27:29) Organizational Structure and Job Descriptions(29:08) Maximizing Team Productivity and Revenue(31:00) Measuring Performance of Remote Team Members(33:42) Challenges in Adopting Remote Work in Dentistry(35:56) Building a New Narrative for Remote Work(38:53) Navigating Employee Turnover and Business Continuity

February 4, 2025Episode 10346 min

Behind the Scenes of Dental GPOs: The Pros and Cons with Karla-Marie Santiago,

SummaryIn this episode of the ZenOne Podcast, Tiger Safarov interviews Karla-Marie Santiago, a senior director of strategic partnerships at SupplyDoc, to discuss the role of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) in the dental industry. They explore the benefits of GPOs for independent practices, the different types of GPOs, and the importance of procurement strategies. Karla shares insights on evaluating GPOs, the challenges of adoption, and the significance of customer service in ensuring a positive experience for members. In this conversation, Karla-Marie Santiago and Tiger Safarov delve into the complexities of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) in the dental industry. They discuss the challenges of adoption, the importance of relationships in negotiations, and the critical factors to consider when evaluating GPOs. The conversation highlights the role of vendor relationships, the significance of pricing and utilization, and when practices should consider engaging with GPOs based on their growth goals and procurement strategies.TakeawaysGPOs leverage collective buying power for better pricing.Independent practices can benefit significantly from joining GPOs.Different GPOs have unique value propositions and structures.Understanding the types of GPOs is crucial for making informed decisions.Customer service and communication are vital for GPO success.Procurement encompasses more than just purchasing; it's about strategy.Adoption of GPOs can be challenging due to various factors.GPOs should provide tools to simplify data management for members.Evaluating GPOs requires understanding their offerings and contracts.The relationship between GPOs and vendors is key to member satisfaction. Adoption of GPOs can be challenging due to data gathering issues.Having a single point of contact is crucial for effective relationship management.Investment in relationships is key to achieving ROI with GPOs.Evaluating GPOs requires understanding their partnerships and pricing structures.Utilization of contracts is essential for maximizing savings.Strong relationships can lead to better pricing negotiations.Reps play a significant role in maintaining vendor relationships.Practices should assess their growth goals before engaging with GPOs.A dollar saved is often more impactful than a dollar earned.The transition from emerging to mid-market is a critical time to consider procurement strategies.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to GPOs and Their Importance(03:05) Understanding Different Types of GPOs(05:58) Evaluating GPOs: Examples and Their Value Propositions(09:04) Why Join a GPO? Benefits for Independent Practices(11:47) Navigating Product Choices and Vendor Relationships(14:55) The Role of Procurement in Dental Practices(17:59) Pros and Cons of GPO Structures(21:00) Challenges and Risks of Joining a GPO(23:52) Customer Service and Communication in GPOs(27:10) Best Practices for GPO Adoption(28:06) Evaluating GPOs: Key Considerations(30:10) Understanding Pricing and Utilization(32:33) The Role of Relationships in Negotiation(34:39) The Value of Reps in GPOs(39:49) When to Consider GPOs for Your Practice(45:08) Growth Goals and Procurement Strategies

January 22, 2025Episode 10242 min

“The Fortune is in the Follow Up" with Shaundra Bobo (RCM Expert, Owner of Star Dental Solutions)

Summary In this conversation, Shaundra discusses the intricacies of Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) in dental practices, emphasizing its evolution and the growing importance of financial awareness among dentists. She highlights the challenges faced with insurance claims, the role of AI, and the dynamics of patient billing. The conversation also touches on the benefits of outsourcing billing solutions versus in-house management, the impact of being out of network, and the significance of follow-up in claims management. Shaundra encourages dentists to be proactive in understanding their finances and offers her expertise in navigating these complexities. About: - I offer Customized Solutions - while most companies are based on a one-size-fits-all model, I recognize that every Dentist / Business Owner is going to have a unique situation that they need a solution for. Especially the practices that we make the biggest impact for - the mom & pop private practice. Rather than seeking to build a business on the backs of corporate dental conglomerates, I focus on finding private practices that we can help. Knowing that we are providing serenity of mind to dentists who have personally poured their blood, sweat and tears into building their private practice means that we are both coming from the same playing field of entrepreneurship and makes me feel even more passionate about our mutual success! - I'm a born Recruiter - I've professionally networked and recruited for a dental billing company for the last decade - before that I was building up dental practices around the Austin area as a practice administrator and coach. What that means is that I've built a huge network over two decades of the top tier pros in the dental RCM industry. I've taken the leg work out of attracting and retaining the people that offices need to manage their dental and patient billing processes and hired them myself! The benefit to the practice is a nationwide network of top talent with all the expertise, but without the salary price tag of a local robust resume. I'm confident that my approach of leveraging my organic network of hard working experts is what sets me apart from other outsourced dental billing companies. Please feel free to visit my website for additional information about services offered. Star Dental Solutions Email: shaundra@stardentalsolutions.net Takeaways: RCM is essential for the financial health of dental practices. The rise of DSOs has changed the landscape of dental billing. Many dentists lack awareness of their insurance collections. Outsourcing billing can alleviate administrative burdens. AI can assist but cannot replace human oversight in billing. Insurance companies often have automated systems that can reject claims. Effective communication with patients about insurance is crucial. Follow-up is key to successful claims management. Being out of network can lead to better financial outcomes for practices. Consultation and software evaluation can benefit dental practices. Chapters (00:00) Understanding Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) (02:51) The Evolution of Dental Practices and RCM (05:33) Challenges in Private Practice Management (08:16) The Role of Technology in RCM (10:54) Navigating Insurance Claims and Payments (13:44) The Importance of Active Management in RCM (16:21) Balancing Patient Care and Administrative Duties (19:12) Key Metrics for Successful RCM Management (21:51) Claim Management Strategies (22:08) Common Reasons for Claim Rejections (23:15) The Dance of Denials (25:00) Understanding the Appeal Process (26:24) The Business Mindset of Dentists (28:04) Winning Appeals and Follow-Up (29:13) The Importance of Out-of-Network Practices (30:18) Navigating Insurance as a Patient (32:32) The Financial Dynamics of Dental Practices (35:11) Bringing Value to Dental Practices (37:25) Evaluating Outsourced Solutions (39:47) Consultation and Collaboration