Welcome back to Toolbox Tuesday! We continue our candid series where Dr. Sten Ericson shares his unexpected findings after returning to full-time clinical practice this past summer. Last week, we discussed doctor complaints about assistants. This week, we tackle the flip side: How doctors are actively enabling their teams to underperform and sabotaging their own efficiency. Dr. Ericson and Jennifer Paxton dive deep into the specific non-doctor tasks (like Slacking X-rays or emailing patients) that are stealing critical production time from associate doctors and why they hold onto this unnecessary control. The issue isn't a lack of team ability; it's a lack of doctor delegation. What We Discuss in This Episode: Why you should only be doing the tasks that require your license—and nothing else. How constantly taking over tasks (like sending lab cases or Slacking records) prevents your team from ever learning to do it properly. Why a doctor running late often correlates directly with the 20 minutes they spent doing non-clinical, administrative work. How rushing to do a non-doctor task at the end of the day (like post-processing a scan) actually lowers quality compared to a properly delegated task done by the team immediately. The "painful" reality of hearing doctors give excuses instead of simply letting go of control. Why the dental assistant should be the true "owner" of their op, and how doctors are just "invited guests" who need to be supported by their zone owner. Key Takeaway: When you expect more from your team and yourself, they rise up. When you enable the team, you hurt your production, your schedule, and their career growth. This is Part 2 of a 3-part conversation! Join us next week for the final part as we discuss the pitfalls of the "rugged individualist" doctor mentality. Need Help Calibrating Your Team? If you're ready to stop making excuses and start building highly efficient systems, Pathway Dental Solutions can help you with leadership coaching, operational cheat sheets, and on-target tracking. Connect with Us: Reach out to us at: connected@pathwaydentalsolutions.com Find us on all social media platforms! Don't forget to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss Part 3!

Welcome back to Toolbox Tuesday! After a short hiatus, Jennifer and Sten are back to tackle a recurring pain point in dental practices: the relationship and perceived issues between doctors and their dental assistants. Sten recently spent time back in the clinical chair—something he hasn't done extensively in years—and gained a fresh perspective on the day-to-day operations and team performance that associate doctors have been complaining about. The recurring theme? "The assistants are always messing things up!" In this candid discussion, Sten shares his surprising observations and reveals where the real "slop and holes" in the system might actually lie. What We Discuss: The Intentional Hiatus: Why we took a break from Toolbox Tuesday. Red Teaming Your Practice: Proactively finding holes and inefficiencies before they become major problems. Doctor's Perception vs. Reality: Sten's on-the-ground experience working with the same team that our associate doctors have expressed frustration with. The Leadership Look in the Mirror: Why doctors—whether an owner or an associate—are the leaders in the operatory and need to set the standard. Unreasonable Expectations: When doctors expect the most from their assistants but not from themselves. The Supportable Model: Our non-dedicated assistant model and how it forces better training, standardized protocols, and prevents the "keys to the kingdom" problem. Owner vs. Associate Mindset: How the pressure of business ownership changes a doctor's approach to team accountability and efficiency. This is Part 1 of a two-part conversation! Join us next week as we continue the discussion on coaching doctors, team victim mentality, and building a high-performing dental team. Want to tackle your own operational challenges, improve leadership, and set up effective on-target tracking for your doctors? Pathway Dental Solutions is accepting private clients! Connect with Us: Find out how we can help your team and practice at: PathwayDentalSolutions.com We're on all social media platforms!

Join Jennifer from Pathway Dental Solutions for another enlightening episode of Toolbox Tuesday. This week, by popular demand, we delve into the complex issue of gaslighting within the workplace, specifically within dental practices. Discover how to recognize gaslighting behaviors, why they may inadvertently occur among high performers, and how leadership can effectively address these behaviors to maintain a positive and supportive practice culture. Jennifer shares insightful case studies, strategies, and tips on fostering improved communication and accountability that can benefit not only professional relationships but personal ones too. Tune in and learn how to enhance emotional intelligence within your practice for smoother operations and better team cohesion. Connect with Jennifer to explore further resources and support for your practice at Pathway Dental Solutions.

**Podcast Title: Toolbox Tuesday Podcast: Navigating the Shift from Solo to Group Dental Practice** **Episode Description:** Welcome back to the Toolbox Tuesday Podcast by Pathway Dental Solutions! In this second installment of our origin story series, Jennifer continues her journey, moving beyond her initial experiences to explore the dynamic world of group dental practice. In this episode, Jennifer shares her reasons for transitioning from a single-doctor environment to the bustling ecosystem of a group practice. Concerned about the sustainability of traditional single-doctor setups, she took a bold leap across the country to Boston, where she sought opportunities in a more collaborative and resource-rich setting. Jennifer discusses the challenges and benefits of working in a larger practice, stressing the importance of teamwork, flexibility, and being part of something bigger. From facing the initial trials of proving her worth in a new environment to actively contributing to business strategies, her story is an insightful roadmap for dental professionals considering similar transitions. This episode provides essential takeaways for owner doctors looking to attract and retain top talent by highlighting unique aspects and opportunities within group practices. Hear how Jennifer’s experiences shaped her current approach to mentorship and recruitment, offering fresh perspectives for building thriving dental teams. Don't miss this chance to learn how embracing change and collaboration can propel your practice forward. Tune in now and be inspired by Jennifer’s journey! For more information on team training and recruitment strategies, connect with us on social media, email us at connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com, or visit our website at www.pathwaydentalsolutions.com. Stay tuned for next week's episode, where we dive into applying these lessons to our own group practice!

Podcast Title: Toolbox Tuesday Podcast: From Humble Beginnings to Dental Leadership - Jennifer’s Journey Episode Description: Welcome to another enlightening episode of Toolbox Tuesday, brought to you by Pathway Dental Solutions! This week, we shine the spotlight on Jennifer, one of our esteemed team members, as she shares her captivating journey from accidental entry into the dental world to becoming a leader in the field. Join us as Jennifer candidly discusses her origins, starting as a front office assistant with no dental experience and unexpectedly transitioning to chairside assistance. Her story unveils the challenges and triumphs faced by those new to the dental profession, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and support in building successful careers. Discover how Jennifer's passion for helping others and her determination to expand her role led her to advance into dental management and operations. Learn valuable insights on how dental practices can effectively recruit, train, and develop their teams by showcasing potential career paths and nurturing talent from within. Whether you're an aspiring dental professional or a seasoned practitioner looking to enhance your practice's recruitment and training strategies, this episode offers a wealth of inspiration and practical advice. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the transformative power of guidance and growth in the dental industry. For further information on our training programs and private client coaching options, reach out to us on social media or email us at connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com. Visit our website at www.pathwaydentalsolutions.com and stay tuned for more insightful episodes every Tuesday. Join us next week for more tips, tricks, and transformational stories in the world of dentistry. Until then, keep building those unicorns!

Webinar Replay! ️ Mentoring Million Dollar Producers: A New Paradigm in Dental Practices Join Pathway Dental Solutions as we explore the transformative power of mentorship for dentists and practice owners aiming to nurture million-dollar producers. In this episode, we replay our insightful webinar where Jennifer Paxton, COO, and Dr. Sen Ericson, Founder of Pathway Dental Solutions, dissect the essence of mentorship in the dental industry. **Key Highlights:** - **What Mentorship Truly Means:** Unpacking the often-misunderstood buzzword of 'mentorship' within dental practices. - **Ongoing vs. One-Time Mentorship:** How continuous guidance surpasses conventional training paradigms typically encountered in dental schools and CE programs. - **Mentorship for Growth:** Shifting from being just a safety net to an empowering force that drives both personal and professional growth. - **Case Studies & Real Applications:** Examples from our Million Dollar Doctor Development Program showing real impact in practices. - **Defining Success & Failure:** Understanding how metrics-driven mentorship can avoid the "throwing spaghetti at the wall" approach for more consistent and replicable success. - **Building a Mentorship Culture:** Emphasizing the importance of open communication and constructive feedback within the entire team to drive improvements and growth. Tune in to discover actionable insights on harnessing the power of mentorship to enhance productivity and fulfill the true potential of your dental team. Ready to redefine your mentorship approach? Don’t miss this essential listen for forward-thinking practice owners and dentists! Listen now to start building a clearer path to outstanding mentorship in your practice.

Navigating the Mentorship Maze in Dentistry with Sten Join us for the latest episode of Toolbox Tuesday, featuring the third installment of our special series with the insightful and experienced Sten. In this episode, we delve into the often misunderstood concept of mentorship within the dental profession. Stem candidly shares his personal journey from a solo dental practitioner to a pivotal figure in group practice, exploring how his views on mentorship have evolved over time. Discover the power of embracing a "tribe of mentors" instead of seeking a singular guide, and learn why investing in mentorship, both emotionally and financially, is crucial for professional growth. Stem also highlights his unique approach to mentorship—balancing structured guidance with fostering independence among his associate doctors. Hear about the importance of pushing beyond comfort zones, defining true emergencies, and cultivating the confidence to handle complex cases. Whether you're a dental professional looking to refine your skills, a mentor seeking to enhance your approach, or just curious about the intricate dynamics of mentorship, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how strategic mentorship can redefine your career and propel you toward success. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!

In this episode, Jennifer from Pathway Dental Solutions takes you on an insightful journey through our upcoming free webinar, set to empower doctors with million-dollar production potential. Join us next Friday as we delve into the enriching Doctor Development Program. **Here's what's in store:** - **Emotional Intelligence Mastery:** Discover the EQ secrets to enhance communication with your team and patients. Dentists, it's time to bridge the gap that dental school left open. - **Exam Analysis Advantage System:** Learn how AI is revolutionizing the objective analysis of dental exams. Get a sneak peek into the 31-point evaluation process that transforms feedback into actionable insights. - **On Target Tracking:** Navigate beyond standard KPIs by reverse engineering income goals into daily procedures. Understand how to track exams, new patient visits, and procedures effectively to align with your practice's income objectives. All these elements are designed to provide tangible assets for immediate implementation. If you're part of our Doctor Development Program, this is a must-attend. Don't miss the chance to have your questions answered and network with like-minded professionals. Email us for details or connect with us directly for personalized guidance. We look forward to welcoming you next Friday! *Tune in, and let's transform your practice into a powerhouse of productivity.*

From Solo to Synergy: Sten's Transformation to Group Practice Join us for the second installment of our special Toolbox Tuesday series, featuring Sten in the hot seat. In this episode, we trace Sten's compelling journey from a solo dental practitioner to embracing the complexities and rewards of group practice. This transformation story is a must-listen for dental professionals eager to understand the dynamics of practice evolution. Sten dives into the challenges and realizations that inspired him to shift from running a solo practice to building a cohesive group practice. Learn about the pivotal moments that highlighted the importance of autonomy and shared values among associates, and how these elements contribute to a thriving dental environment. Discover the benefits of collaboration and mentorship in dentistry, as Sten shares his insights on avoiding the pitfalls of practicing in isolation. He emphasizes the power of open communication, mutual support, and mentorship in fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Confronting imposter syndrome and embracing a growth mindset, Sten’s journey offers invaluable lessons on leadership and personal development. His candid reflections provide inspiration and guidance for dental practitioners at all stages of their careers. Tune in to explore these themes and more, as we continue to delve into the evolving landscape of dental practice management with Sten’s insightful experiences and strategies. Don’t miss out on this engaging and informative episode!

Discovering Dentistry – Sten's Path to a Fulfilling Career In this episode of Toolbox Tuesday, we embark on the first installment of our special series focusing on the origin stories of our dedicated doctors. Join us as Dr. Sten Ericson shares his compelling journey into the world of dentistry—a career choice driven by his passion for science, creativity, and the allure of being his own boss. Sten recounts how his early experiences as an EMT and within various medical settings shaped his decision to pursue dentistry, opting for a profession that matched his temperament and allowed a more elective and creative approach. Learn about the industry’s evolution over the last decade and how Sten navigated the traditional path from dental school to ownership, ultimately seeking a unique practice model that balances the benefits of private practice and corporate DSOs. This episode also delves into the challenges faced by new dentists as they transition from clinical training to business management. Sten offers candid insights into the importance of viewing your practice as a business owner and the necessity of informed strategies to unlock its full potential. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the foundational decisions that have shaped Sten's successful career in dentistry, and join us next week as we continue exploring the dynamics of group practice and mentorship. Don’t miss this enlightening episode filled with inspiration and practical advice for dental professionals at every stage of their journey!

Webinar Replay: Building Self-Managed Teams in 60 Days Unlock the secret to transforming your dental practice with our latest webinar replay: "Building Self-Managed Teams in 60 Days." Dive into the mechanics of our groundbreaking First 400 program that empowers you to cultivate autonomous, high-performing teams efficiently and effectively. In this engaging session, we walk you through the methodologies and strategies behind creating self-sufficient teams that require minimal supervision and maximize productivity. Learn how you can tailor and implement this transformative program within your own practice to foster a culture of accountability and excellence. **What You'll Discover:**- **The First 400 Program:** An in-depth look at our unique program that accelerates team onboarding from six months to just 60 days, emphasizing cultural and mindset alignment.- **Step-by-Step Implementation:** A comprehensive guide on how to launch and customize the program for your practice, ensuring a seamless transition and sustainable results.- **Benefits of Self-Managed Teams:** Explore the advantages of having self-directed teams, including increased efficiency, employee satisfaction, and practice growth.- **Real-Life Success Stories:** Hear from dental practices that have successfully implemented the First 400 program and transformed their team dynamics. Whether you are looking to streamline operations or enhance team performance, this webinar provides the tools and insights needed to achieve lasting success. Don't miss this opportunity to revolutionize your practice with empowered, self-managed teams. Ready to take the next step? Access the full webinar replay and explore how Pathway Dental Solutions can support your journey toward building a stronger, more cohesive team. Visit [pathwaydentalsolutions.com](http://pathwaydentalsolutions.com) to learn more!

Toolbox Tuesday - Starting Your Career in Dentistry Welcome to a special edition of "Toolbox Tuesday" by Pathway Dental Solutions, designed specifically for aspiring dental professionals! Are you ready to embark on an exciting new career in dentistry but unsure where to start? This episode is tailored just for you. Join us as we explore the essential components needed to launch a successful career in the dental field. We delve into our comprehensive training program that bridges the gap between academic coursework and practical on-the-job training. Discover how our program prepares you with the skills you need without requiring a full-year commitment like traditional community college courses. In this episode, we answer key questions on financial preparedness and career growth:- Are you ready for the financial shift when starting from the ground up?- What steps can you take to ensure you’re set for success while working your way up?- How can our training program accelerate your learning and provide valuable experience before you even step into a dental office? Whether you're interested in front office roles or back office opportunities, our paths to promotion are clearly mapped out, offering structured growth and clear expectations. Learn why open financial conversations are crucial during interviews and how to position yourself as a valuable asset to potential employers. Join us to gain insights, tools, and confidence to stand out from the crowd and start your fulfilling career in dentistry. Ready to get started? Visit [pathwaydentalsolutions.com](http://pathwaydentalsolutions.com) for more information on our education platforms, or reach out to us directly at connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com. Let's pave the way for your success in the dental industry!

### Podcast Description: Toolbox Tuesday by Pathway Dental Solutions **Episode Title:** Building Career Pathways in Dentistry: Unlocking Potential and Passion Welcome back to "Toolbox Tuesday," your weekly source of insights and strategies from Pathway Dental Solutions! This episode dives deep into a pivotal topic for dental practices: creating transparent and motivating career pathways for team members. Join us as we explore how practice owners can establish effective structures that inspire team members to embark on fulfilling careers, from their first steps in the dental field to their professional peaks. We'll discuss the significance of hiring for cultural fit over experience, ensuring that team members feel valued and see a clear trajectory for promotion and growth within your practice. You'll also learn:- Why it's crucial to have candid financial discussions and set transparent expectations from the start.- How our "First 400" program can transform your onboarding process, speeding it up from six months to just 60 days by focusing on mindset over experience.- The importance of laying out structured paths to promotion to retain top talent and foster a loyal, motivated team. Whether you're struggling with hiring challenges or looking to boost team engagement, this episode offers actionable tips and thought-provoking questions to help you refine your approach. Tune in to discover how you can elevate your practice by developing team members who are not just employees, but integral parts of your business growth and success. For more resources and personalized advice, visit [pathwaydentalsolutions.com](http://pathwaydentalsolutions.com) or email us at connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com. **Don't miss this empowering conversation — it's time to forge a future where your practice and team members grow together!**

Transforming Onboarding with Pathway Dental Solutions' First 400 Program Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into how the First 400 program is redefining the onboarding process in dental practices. Unlike the traditional SOPs that often sit unused on a shelf, the First 400 provides a dynamic and interactive approach to training new team members. Our program accelerates onboarding from a lengthy six months to an efficient 60 days, turning new hires into active team participants from day one. In this episode, we address the challenges of onboarding experienced professionals who may resist new protocols and discuss how the First 400 fosters a culture of accountability and clarity. Learn how detailed job descriptions and weekly goals ensure everyone understands their roles and expectations. We'll also explore how to harness the First 400 to build a resilient and adaptable team ready to thrive in the face of change. From crafting compelling job ads to maintaining a robust hiring pipeline, this episode offers strategies to ensure your practice remains proactive in hiring and training. Tune in to uncover how the First 400 can transform your practice's onboarding experience, fostering a strong, cohesive, and empowered team. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to leadership, discover how our innovative program can elevate your practice to new heights. For more information on how the First 400 can benefit your practice, don't hesitate to reach out to us at connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com. Let's connect and see how we can help you overcome onboarding challenges and achieve lasting success.

In this episode of our podcast series, we dive deep into the common objections encountered when launching a new training program. Understandably, new team members may feel overwhelmed by the material, but it's crucial to remind them of the valuable resources available and the structured training program designed to support them. This episode emphasizes the importance of holding new team members accountable for achieving weekly goals, ensuring they remain focused and motivated. For existing team members, the training program reinforces accountability by upholding our systems and ensuring they correctly implement them. By actively participating in the hiring and training process, current team members can guide and set new hires up for success. Moreover, their involvement fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, crucial for building a cohesive, competent team ready to drive growth. Join us as we explore these challenges and offer insights into successfully navigating them for a thriving dental practice.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative impact of our "First 400" onboarding program designed specifically for dental practices. Join us as we explore how this innovative approach compresses the standard six-month training timeline into an efficient 60-day process, ensuring new team members hit the ground running. Discover how practice owners benefit from a structured system that reduces turnover impacts and stress, enabling them to focus on production and strategic growth. Whether you're dealing with staff changes due to personal life events or simply aiming to optimize your practice's productivity, the insights shared in this episode will guide you toward a more resilient and effective operational model. Tune in for stories, strategies, and solutions that promise to elevate your practice to the next level.

️ **Toolbox Tuesday | Episode: Week 8 - Mastery and Professionalism in Our First 400 Front Office Training** Join us for the final episode of our First 400 Front Office Training Program series, where we delve into Week 8, the crowning moment of our intensive 60-day onboarding journey. This episode is crucial as we evaluate whether new team members are the right fit for our practice in the long term. Discover how we strive to ensure that team members can independently handle 90% of their tasks and possess the ability to teach others, marking true mastery. Week 8 also accentuates the importance of professional etiquette, including dress code conformity and maintaining impeccable communication standards with patients. This focus helps uphold the professional reputation of our healthcare providers. Listen in as we discuss how Pathway Dental Solutions supports new members' transition into fully participatory roles, ensuring ongoing growth and contribution to our practice. This episode encapsulates the spirit of dedication and excellence accompanying the conclusion of our First 400 program. Don't miss this insightful wrap-up of our onboarding journey, and learn how we continue to nurture a team centered around outstanding patient care.

️ **Toolbox Tuesday | Episode: Week 7 - Front Office Mastery in our First 400 Onboarding Program** In this enlightening episode of Toolbox Tuesday by Pathway Dental Solutions, we explore Week 7 of our dynamic First 400 onboarding program. Dive deep into our *Keys to Success* module, specifically designed to elevate the communication and service skills of our front office team. Whether you're new to the dental industry or bringing years of experience, this episode sheds light on essential strategies for mastering patient interaction and ensuring consistent communication across the team. Learn how our accelerated program condenses what was once a six-month training into just 60 days, empowering team members to confidently communicate with patients and understand the full spectrum of services offered by our practice. Discover why a unified front office approach can transform a patient's journey and foster a trusted, respected dental practice. Tune in to revolutionize your approach to dental coaching and boost your team's operational excellence. Don't miss out on these empowering insights!

Real Talk-Loyal Team Members! What does having a "loyal" team member mean to you? Is it a unicorn employee who stay with you for their entire career? Or is it a team member who helps drive results and is always interviewing for the job they have? Have you had 4 of your 7 team members out at the same time? We sure have! Our self managed team helped us onboard new team members when this situation arose and we can help you too! What other topics would you like to chat about? #PathwayDentalSolutions #TeamLoyalty #SelfManagedTeams

We are being vulnerable to dive deeper into some of these topics and how they relate to our upcoming Building Self Managed Team webinar! Have you ever had "loyal" team members who have broken your trust at the expense of your business? Have you had to replace your entire staff multiple times? Do you know what time your checking account registers reset each night so you can plan out what is required to transfer? We do! And we want to help others who are struggling with the same pain points. Building a self managed team is such a crucial part of the puzzle but it just one piece and we want to help you connect the rest together. Stop the cycle of suffering-let's connect! connect@pathwaydentalsolutions.com https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2917376500496/WN_yNVOhFrhSpSbm48acD1Jpg