• New Year Reflections and Goals
    Jan 8 2026

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 422

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this episode of the Bulletproof Dental Practice Podcast, Craig Spodak and Peter Boulden discuss the significance of the New Year as a time for reflection and goal setting. They emphasize the importance of strategic planning in dentistry, highlighting how the urgent often overshadows the important tasks that lead to growth. The conversation explores the allure of production over strategic thinking, the cost of never stepping back from clinical work, and the necessity of creating a sustainable practice. They also touch on the value of team consensus and the impact of the Bulletproof Summit as a transformative experience for dental professionals.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • New Year's is a time for reflection and goal setting.

    • Writing down goals provides a snapshot of past aspirations.

    • The urgent often crowds out the important in dentistry.

    • Dentists often prioritize being busy over being productive.

    • Strategic time must be protected, not just found.

    • The cost of never stepping back can be detrimental.

    • Creating a sustainable practice requires strategic planning.

    • Team consensus can drive motivation and ownership.

    • The Bulletproof Summit offers transformative experiences for dental teams.

    • If nothing changes, nothing changes.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 New Year Reflections and Goals

    03:05 The Importance of Strategic Time

    06:01 The Tyranny of the Urgent in Dentistry

    09:04 The Allure of Production Over Strategy

    12:03 The Cost of Not Stepping Back

    14:55 Creating a Sustainable Dental Practice

    18:08 The Role of Team Consensus

    21:10 The Bulletproof Summit and Its Impact

    24:03 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    29:32 Outro

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    30 mins
  • 5 Things We've Learned in 45 years of Dental Marketing
    Jan 2 2026

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 421

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this conversation, Peter Boulden and Craig discuss the evolution of dental marketing over the years, emphasizing the importance of creating joy and hope in marketing strategies. They explore the significance of understanding patient psychology, the value of existing patients, and the need to sell benefits rather than procedures. The discussion also touches on the role of AI in dentistry and the necessity of having a clear process for patient care. Ultimately, they highlight the psychological aspects of success and the importance of believing in one's worth to achieve business goals.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Marketing is often seen as the key to practice growth.

    • Creating joy and hope in marketing can attract patients.

    • Selling benefits rather than procedures is crucial for patient engagement.

    • Understanding patient psychology can enhance treatment acceptance.

    • Existing patients can be a valuable source of referrals.

    • Underpriced attention in marketing can lead to better patient acquisition.

    • AI is set to revolutionize the dental industry in the coming years.

    • Having a clear process can improve patient experience and satisfaction.

    • The psychology of success is essential for achieving business goals.

    • Continuous improvement and adaptation are necessary for success in dentistry.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 The Role of Marketing in Dentistry

    05:07 Creating Joy and Hope in Marketing

    10:07 Selling Benefits Over Procedures

    15:13 The Importance of Understanding Patient Needs

    19:59 Seeking Underpriced Attention in Marketing

    28:48 Maximizing Online Presence through Reviews and SEO

    30:08 The Shift Towards Long-Form Content and Video Engagement

    31:43 The Impact of AI on Business and Patient Care

    33:10 Navigating the Future of Dentistry with AI

    35:08 The Importance of Marketing Strategies and Underpriced Attention

    39:16 Leveraging Existing Patients for Growth

    41:46 The Power of Asking for Referrals and Retention

    43:38 Communicating Services Effectively to Patients

    44:18 Creating a Clear Process for Patient Care

    46:58 The Role of Psychology in Business Success

    55:32 Outro

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    56 mins
  • Local Search Ranking Factors report for 2026 with Darren Shaw
    Dec 25 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 420

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    GUEST: Darren Shaw

    DESCRIPTION

    In this episode, Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak welcome Dr. Darren Shaw, a leading expert in local SEO, to discuss the latest trends and strategies for optimizing local search for dental practices. They explore the importance of Google Business Profiles, the impact of reviews, and the emerging role of AI in search. Darren shares insights from the White Spark Local Search Ranking Factor Survey, emphasizing key factors that influence local rankings, including primary categories, proximity, and behavioral signals. The conversation also covers effective review strategies and the significance of diversifying review sources to enhance visibility in AI search. Listeners will gain valuable tips on how to improve their online presence and attract more patients through local search optimization.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Local search is crucial for dentists, focusing on Google Business Profile.

    • Primary category selection significantly impacts local search rankings.

    • Proximity to the searcher is a key factor in local search results.

    • Reviews and their recency are critical for ranking in local search.

    • Behavioral signals, such as clicks and engagement, influence rankings.

    • AI search is emerging, but traditional SEO practices remain relevant.

    • Diversifying review sources can enhance visibility in AI search.

    • Regular updates to Google Business Profile are essential for engagement.

    • Utilizing listicles can improve visibility in AI search results.

    • White Spark offers comprehensive SEO services for dental practices.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Local SEO and Ranking Factors

    03:17 Understanding Local Search vs. Traditional SEO

    06:05 Key Takeaways from the 2026 Local Ranking Factors

    09:15 The Importance of Google Business Profile Categories

    12:06 Proximity and Its Impact on Local Search

    15:05 The Role of Keywords in Business Names

    17:52 Utilizing Additional Categories for Better Ranking

    21:14 The Significance of Reviews in Local SEO

    24:01 Effective Review Strategies for Dentists

    27:03 Psychological Principles Behind Review Requests

    28:28 The Psychology of Reviews

    30:02 Incentivizing Reviews and Staff Engagement

    31:37 The Evolution of SEO and Authenticity

    32:56 The Impact of AI on Reviews and Rankings

    34:47 Behavioral Signals and Google Business Profiles

    40:49 AI Search and Its Implications for Dentists

    49:13 White Spark's SEO Services for Dentists

    53:21 Bulletproof Summit Code

    54:08 Outro

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    55 mins
  • 3 Skills a Dental Entrepreneur Needs
    Dec 18 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 419

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this conversation, Peter Boulden and Craig discuss the essential skills and mindset required for dental entrepreneurs. They emphasize the importance of projecting confidence, understanding business metrics, and becoming a multiplier in leadership roles. The discussion also touches on the concept of clarity in goals and the distinction between signal and noise in the entrepreneurial journey. The speakers share insights from their experiences and provide actionable advice for dental professionals looking to thrive in their practices.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • A dental entrepreneur has a vision beyond clinical work.

    • Not everyone is suited to be a dental entrepreneur.

    • Projecting confidence is crucial for effective leadership.

    • Understanding your numbers is essential for business success.

    • Sales can solve many business problems, but clarity is key.

    • Becoming a multiplier enhances team performance and satisfaction.

    • The lost decade refers to a lack of clarity in goals and direction.

    • Signal versus noise is important in focusing on what drives growth.

    • Regularly reviewing financial metrics can lead to better decision-making.

    • Creating a business that runs without you is the ultimate goal.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Dental Entrepreneurship

    02:12 Defining the Dental Entrepreneur

    04:03 The Importance of Confidence in Leadership

    08:30 Understanding Your Numbers

    12:47 The Role of a Multiplier in Business

    18:14 The Lost Decade of Learning

    24:48 Signal vs. Noise in Entrepreneurship

    30:47 Outro

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • Would We Want Our Kids to Become Dentists?
    Dec 11 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 418

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this episode of the Bulletproof Dental Practice Podcast, Dr. Craig Spodak and Peter Boulden discuss the evolving landscape of dentistry, including the implications of AI, the financial realities of dental school, and the rising importance of dental hygiene. They explore the skills necessary for success in dental business ownership, the significance of mentorship, and the challenges faced by new dentists. The conversation emphasizes the need for future dentists to understand the business side of their profession and the importance of leadership and influence in achieving success.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Dentistry is an AI-resistant profession.

    • The financial implications of dental school are significant.

    • Dental hygiene is becoming a more lucrative career path.

    • Many dentists are being commoditized in the industry.

    • Future dentists need to be prepared for business ownership.

    • Mentorship is crucial for success in dentistry.

    • Understanding financials is key for dental business owners.

    • Influence and leadership are essential skills for dentists.

    • The narrative around dentistry needs to change for new graduates.

    • It's important to know yourself and your career aspirations.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction and Midlife Crisis Humor

    02:38 The Future of Dentistry: A Personal Perspective

    06:10 Financial Implications of Dental School

    09:52 The Rise of Dental Hygiene

    12:23 The Business of Dentistry: A Necessary Skill

    17:46 Mentorship and Transitioning Roles in Dentistry

    22:09 The Freedom Dilemma in Dentistry

    23:48 Architecting Your Life and Career

    24:13 The Associate vs. Business Owner Debate

    25:39 Essential Skills for Dental Business Owners

    29:07 The Importance of Influence and Leadership

    33:05 Identifying Your Entrepreneurial Spirit

    38:18 Advice for Future Dentists

    39:33 The Reality of Dental Business Ownership

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    44 mins
  • Getting Out of the Chair
    Dec 4 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 417

    HOSTS: Kyle Bergman and Colin Ambler

    GUEST: Dr. Peter Boulden

    DESCRIPTION

    In this episode of The Extraction podcast, Dr. Peter Bolden shares his insights on dental practice growth, focusing on staff engagement, effective systems, and the transition from clinical work to business management. He emphasizes the importance of clarity in career goals, the need for robust systems in practice management, and the value of gamification in team engagement. Dr. Bolden also discusses the significance of delegation and finding one's zone of genius to achieve a successful dental practice.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Dr. Peter Bolden emphasizes the importance of staff engagement in practice growth.

    • Identifying the right dental model is crucial for success in a new city.

    • Transitioning from clinical work to business requires effective systems.

    • Clarity in career goals can prevent a 'lost decade' in dentistry.

    • Systems should be dynamic and regularly updated to avoid chaos.

    • Gamification can enhance team engagement and accountability.

    • Delegation is key to freeing up time for business development.

    • Understanding your zone of genius helps in effective delegation.

    • Revenue growth can facilitate the transition away from clinical work.

    • Regular audits of daily activities can help identify bottlenecks.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to Dental Practice Growth

    02:25 Starting a Dental Practice in a New City

    06:50 Transitioning from Clinical to Business

    10:31 Building Effective Systems in Dentistry

    20:22 Gamification and Team Engagement in Dental Practices

    21:16 Hygiene Reactivation Strategies and Metrics

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    22 mins
  • The Truth About Dental Entrepreneurship
    Nov 27 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 416

    HOSTS: Matthew Brown and Andrew Vallo

    GUESTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this conversation, the hosts and guests discuss the realities of success in dentistry, the impact of social media on expectations, and the importance of clarity and fulfillment in one's career. They explore the challenges of entrepreneurship, the dangers of comparison, and the significance of finding inspiration rather than envy. The discussion also touches on burnout, the lost decade many dentists experience, and the need for a supportive community. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own path and the true meaning of success.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Success is about getting what you want and wanting what you get.

    • Many practices are not as successful as they appear on social media.

    • It's important to find inspiration rather than compare yourself to others.

    • The turning point in a dental career often comes from realizing the need for a sustainable business model.

    • Entrepreneurship in dentistry requires a clear vision and commitment.

    • Burnout often stems from a lack of clarity and progress in one's career.

    • The dental community can be isolating, making support systems crucial.

    • Many dentists experience a 'lost decade' by following the wrong narratives.

    • It's essential to focus on what truly makes you happy in your career.

    • Success is not just about financial metrics but also about personal fulfillment.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Introduction to the Hustle in Dentistry

    03:09 The Reality of Success in Dentistry

    06:10 The Impact of Social Media on Expectations

    08:51 Finding Inspiration vs. Comparison

    11:56 The Turning Point in Dental Careers

    15:08 The Entrepreneurial Mindset in Dentistry

    18:03 The Cost of Entrepreneurship

    20:52 The Importance of Clarity and Fulfillment

    24:04 Navigating the Dental Community

    27:00 Burnout and Finding Balance

    30:12 The Lost Decade in Dentistry

    33:13 Final Thoughts on Success and Happiness

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Don't start planning your exit too late!
    Nov 20 2025

    The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode 415

    HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak

    DESCRIPTION

    In this episode, Peter Boulden and Craig discuss the critical importance of succession planning for dentists, emphasizing that every dentist will eventually need to consider their exit strategy. They explore various pathways for transitioning out of practice, including selling outright, forming partnerships, or selling to private equity. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding practice value, the emotional aspects of selling, and common mistakes to avoid in the planning process. The hosts encourage proactive planning to maximize the value of a dental practice and ensure a smooth transition.

    TAKEAWAYS

    • Succession planning is essential for all dentists.

    • Timing is crucial in the succession planning process.

    • The value of a practice is often tied to its goodwill and assets.

    • Selling a practice without proper planning can lead to significant losses.

    • Partnerships can provide a smoother transition and better value.

    • Private equity can offer liquidity but comes with risks.

    • Emotional states can cloud decision-making in practice transitions.

    • Clear financial records are vital for successful transitions.

    • Investing in practice growth can enhance future sale value.

    • Planning for succession should start early in a dentist's career.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 The Importance of Succession Planning

    03:39 Understanding Practice Value and Transition Risks

    06:31 Exploring Exit Pathways for Dentists

    10:21 The Partnership Path: A Long-Term Strategy

    14:43 Private Equity: Pros and Cons

    20:34 Navigating the Complexities of Selling to PE

    27:46 Understanding Liquidity Events and Their Impact

    30:18 Optimizing for Different Business Paths

    32:52 Investing for Growth and Value Creation

    35:24 Avoiding Common Mistakes in Dentistry

    37:09 The Importance of Planning for the Future

    43:36 Building Successful Partnerships in Dentistry

    50:22 Final Thoughts and Future Endeavors

    REFERENCES

    Bulletproof Summit

    Bulletproof Mastermind

    Show More Show Less
    52 mins