More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Lessons Patients Taught Me The Hard Way

Some of the most powerful lessons in dentistry don’t come from textbooks or training, but from real-life patient encounters that test your patience, humility, and adaptability. In this episode, I reflect on situations where patients pushed me out of my comfort zone and forced me to grow in ways I didn’t expect. You’ll hear how these interactions shaped my approach to communication, accountability, and practice management. More importantly, you’ll discover why it’s okay when patients don’t connect with you and how to manage tough patient personalities. These aren’t just stories to make you laugh; they’re lessons to help you navigate the unpredictable world of patient care with confidence.

Connect with Teresa

Website: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/

Email: teresa@odysseymgmt.com

Instagram: treeduncan

Facebook: Odyssey Management Dental Speaking & Consulting

LinkedIn: Teresa Duncan, MS

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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.odysseymgmt.com/bto

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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/

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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Did you know a single ransomware attack can cost a dental office six figures or shut it down entirely?

A small dental practice is an ideal target for a cyberattack easy to overlook, often underprotected, and rich with valuable patient data. Teresa Pichay (returning guest!) and Katie Fox from the California Dental Association joined me for a scary session. They shared how hackers use phishing emails, malware, and AI-powered scams to break into dental systems, steal information, and demand high ransoms. Many in dentistry assume they’re too small to attract hackers, but that very assumption makes them more vulnerable to hacking attempts. Personal devices, outdated software, and unsecured networks create easy entry points.

Even if the breach occurs through a third-party vendor, the dental office is still held responsible. Without strong cybersecurity protocols, HIPAA compliance, and safeguards in place, practices risk data exposure on the dark web or deep web, legal trouble, and costly service disruptions. Cyber liability insurance can help but prevention through secured systems, trained staff, and regular risk assessments is the only reliable defense in an AI-driven threat landscape.

Resources from the CDA:

Resources from the CDA:

CDA_2025_Cyber_Safety_Checkup.pdf

CDA_2025_Questions_Software_Vendor.pdf

Want to see the source behind the discussion? Check out the articles below:

Medical and Dental Groups Settle Class Action Data Breach Lawsuits

Aspen Dental reaches $18.7M settlement in data tracking case

Connect with Teresa and Katie

Email: Teresa.pichay@cda.org & security@cda.org

Resources at California Dental Association https://www.cda.org/

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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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Did you know 80% of dental claim denials can be overturned with the right strategy?

I love meeting fellow insurance nerds! My time with Dr. Christie Bateman was packed full! She shared how to master PPOs, Medicare Advantage plans, and complex prior authorization rules while protecting your bottom line. Dr. Christie breaks down the exact methods she uses to reverse denials, clear documentation, targeted patient photos, and short, persuasive appeals that insurance carriers can’t ignore.

Get the inside scoop on Liberty Medicare Advantage’s extensive prior auth requirements and how direct advocacy led to changes that benefit dentists. We discussed the concept of “provider gold cards” that could dramatically reduce administrative workload. The conversation wraps up with real talk about how patient education can guide smarter insurance plan choices. It's not just about better coverage - it's about a smarter patient.

Connect with Dr. Christie

Website: Bateman & LaMond Milford Dentistry

Instagram: milforddentist

Facebook: Bateman & Lamond Milford Dental

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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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Modern office managers lead through clarity, culture, and connection not control. My longtime friend and colleague Lorie Streeter joins me for a frank conversation about the lessons we've learned over the years.

Micromanagement is everywhere, and dental teams are evolving whether leaders are ready or not. The shift from task-checking to true team empowerment is reshaping how successful practices run. We share stories of real managers navigating burnout, toxic dynamics, and panic hiring with surprising clarity.

There’s a raw conversation about what happens when doctors undermine authority, how culture breaks down quietly, and why emotional intelligence is now a non-negotiable skill. We tackle some unexpected truths about staffing “shortages,” leadership blind spots, and what it actually means to build a team that runs on trust not fear. If you've ever carried more weight than your title suggests, this episode unpacks why... and what to do next.

Connect with Lorie

Website: MAXASSIST

Facebook Lorie Genelin Streeter

Instagram Lorie Streeter - Maxed Out

LinkedIn Lorie Streeter

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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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Is the secret to more dental case acceptance hiding in plain sight right inside your own team?

If you’ve ever wondered why some patients freeze at the mention of treatment costs, or how to handle those moments when someone starts Googling your every word from the chair, you’re not alone. In this episode, Teresa talks with Angela Sullivan of Adaptive Dental Solutions about effectively helping teams boost treatment acceptance without feeling like a pushy salesperson. Angela shares stories and lessons straight from the operatory, from the power of a simple photo to honest talk about money and shares why confidence (not more facts) is what gets patients to say yes. The conversation covers everything from handling awkward price conversations to how handoffs and team communication can make or break your acceptance rates.

They wrap up with a preview of their October 10 workshop on advanced dental career possibilities. If you've ever wondered what is ‘Beyond the Operatory’ then you'll love what they have planned!

Connect with Angela:

Website https://adaptivedentalsolutions.com/

Email angela@adaptive-dental-solutions.com

Facebook Adaptive Dental Solutions

Instagram angeladavissullivan_ads

LinkedIn Angela Davis-Sullivan

Angela's book: https://www.amazon.com/Coming-Home-Better-Practice-no-nonsense/dp/0999786377

Join us for Beyond The Operatory on October 10, 2025 — a career workshop with Angela Davis-Sullivan and Teresa Duncan. Reserve your spot now: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/bto-waitlist

-------------

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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Imagine a dental world where patient data flows as freely as it does in medicine—no more wasted time, lost information, or clunky workarounds. Vyne’s CEO Steve Roberts sits down with me to discuss why the dental industry is ready for transformational change and what that means for claims processing, practice efficiency, and ultimately, better care for your patients. I shared my frustration at the unfairness of ptient data being gatekept just for profit. It could be happening to you - it just seems normal. But it’s not right.

Key Talking Points:

• Why Patient Data Needs to Flow Freely

Dental software systems shouldn’t make it difficult or expensive to easily share patient information. Uncover how the lack of interoperability holds practices back, limits care quality, and what it will take to catch up to the medical field’s standards.

• The Evolution of Claims Processing & Real-Time Demands

We talked about the trend of carriers seeing value in letting us have more access to claims and benefit information. How do we make it standard?

• Change Healthcare’s Security Breach—A Wake Up Call

Hear lessons learned from last year’s Change Healthcare security crisis that exposed vulnerabilities across the entire claims ecosystem. Find out what offices and vendors are doing to build redundancy, improve security, and ensure practices never face that kind of disruption again.

Whether you’re a dental professional looking to stay ahead of industry changes, or you’re passionate about making your practice more efficient and resilient, this episode is packed with strategies and inspiration for embracing the future of dental claims and technology.

Connect with Vyne:

Website: https://vynedental.com/

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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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

*Is your AR out of control? Is your admin team burning out? 😩 Maybe it's time for help. It's easier than you think and you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Have a conversation with Wisdom Dental Billing to see how they can help. Reach out them here: http://withwisdom.com/teresaduncan

-------------

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

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Are you a dentist feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just stuck in survival mode? What if the real issue isn’t your clinical skills, but how you’re managing your time, your stress, and your practice?

Mark Davis built and ran 16 dental practices over the course of his career — and now he’s sharing what most dentists never figure out until it’s too late. The pressure to stay on schedule, the chaos of last-minute emergencies, the constant tension with staff… it’s not just part of the job. It’s a signal that something’s off.

This episode is about the real reason burnout creeps in, even when things look fine on the surface — and the kind of mindset shift that can fix it without blowing up your whole practice. If the day-to-day feels heavier than it should, this is one worth hearing.

Connect with Dr. Mark

Email mark@dentalsimplified.com

Website https://dentalsimplified.com/

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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/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

*Is your AR out of control? Is your admin team burning out? 😩 Maybe it's time for help. It's easier than you think and you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Have a conversation with Wisdom Dental Billing to see how they can help. Reach out them here: http://withwisdom.com/teresaduncan

-------------

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