In this episode of Dentist to De Novo, host Jonathan Miller talks with Dr. Kayla Klingensmith about her bold decision to create a practice from scratch. After adapting herself to fit various associate positions for years, Dr. Kayla explains what pushed her to build something uniquely hers. The discussion explores financial concerns, decision-making challenges, and unexpected discoveries throughout her startup process. Dr. Kayla questions common beliefs about needing specialized dental architects and contractors, while Jonathan explains how proper timing is the real key to cost savings. Listeners will appreciate Dr. Kayla's practical advice for future practice owners: select one trusted advisor and tune out conflicting opinions that could blur your vision. This straightforward conversation shows what happens when a dentist finally declares, "I want to do it the way I want to do it."

In this second episode, host Jonathan Miller counts down the most common mistakes dentists make when pursuing practice ownership. With almost two decades of experience helping hundreds of doctors, Miller shares practical insights on what truly matters - from finding consistency in your vision to avoiding the costly "I'm right" mentality that can derail your plans. He breaks down exactly who belongs on your professional team, why time economics impact your bottom line, and how proper budgeting determines long-term success. Miller cuts through industry noise with his straightforward approach of "information over affirmation," giving dentists the unfiltered guidance they need to make better decisions. This episode delivers concrete advice for both startups and acquisitions, helping dentists sidestep expensive pitfalls and build a stronger foundation for their practice from day one.

Connect with Jonathan Miller:

Website: De Novo DDS

In this episode of Dentist to De Novo, host Jonathan Miller talks with Dr. Tara about her journey to discover what truly fulfills her as a dentist. Dr. Tara shares how her thinking evolved from bragging about her large multi-doctor practice to valuing focused, one-on-one patient care. The conversation tackles why many dentists hesitate to pursue ownership, the fear that keeps them in analysis paralysis, and the calculated mindset that makes taking risks difficult. Miller offers practical advice on cutting through uncertainty and taking action toward practice ownership, while Dr. Tara explains her approach to authenticity in dentistry. This honest conversation gives listeners valuable insights into finding a practice model that aligns with their personal values—whether that's a bustling group practice or a more intimate setting focused on quality over quantity.

Ready to take the leap into dental practice ownership but not sure where to start? Dentist to De Novo guides you through the journey of starting or acquiring your first practice, with insights from someone who's helped hundreds of dentists in your shoes. Host Jonathan Miller brings almost two decades of experience helping dentists navigate their first practice purchase from how to find the right location and financing to opening the doors and building the dream team to see it grow from the start!

Whether you're dreaming of building from the ground up or buying an existing practice, this podcast cuts through the noise to deliver practical, actionable guidance. Jonathan focuses on real strategies over empty motivation, helping you minimize risk and confidently tackle the unknowns of practice ownership. Join him as he shares how to grow your practice, build your brand, and preserve the private practice model—one doctor at a time.