Corporate dentistry isn’t evil, but it’s changing the game faster than most private practices realize. In this no-holds-barred episode, Dr. Greg Grillo sounds the alarm on how DSOs are reshaping patient expectations, marketing strategies, and the business model of modern dentistry.
From centralized call centers to billion-dollar private equity backing, DSOs are rewriting the rules, and too many independents are still playing by the old playbook. Greg unpacks the data behind the DSO wave, shares real stories from the field, and lays out what independent dentists must do now to stay relevant and profitable.
This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s a wake-up call for every dentist who wants to protect their autonomy, evolve their systems, and compete with confidence in a corporate-driven market.
Key Takeaways:
The real reason DSOs are winning (and it’s not clinical quality)
Why patient expectations are shifting faster than most realize
How to build systems, marketing, and leadership that scale — even as a solo or small group practice
Why authenticity and agility are the independent dentist’s greatest competitive advantage
Staffing has evolved into one of dentistry’s most significant challenges, but the future holds opportunities behind today's challenges.
In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Christine Sison, CEO and founder of Swiss Monkey, to explore how virtual staffing transforms the way innovative dental practices operate. With her Harvard background and experience at the crossroads of healthcare, business, and technology, Christine brings a critical perspective on the direction of our dental workforce. Every dentist needs to tune into this trend.
Greg and Christine also share stories from their Practice Journey Workshop across Hawaii, and then dive into critical insights every dentist should hear:
How generational shifts and post-pandemic dynamics are reshaping staffing
Why practices need to rethink what work gets done virtually vs. in-office.
The role technology plays in creating hybrid teams that actually thrive and complement each other
What’s coming next for dental owners, and how to “future-proof” your practice
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by staffing volatility, this conversation offers fresh solutions and a look at what’s next for dentistry.
Listen now and discover how to build a more innovative and resilient team that still delivers the highest level of patient care.
Learn more about Swiss Monkey at www.swissmonkey.io
Contact Dr. Grillo at www.methodpro.com/drgrillo
Google just dropped a major update that changes the game for how ranking data is collected, and dental practices will feel the impact. In this special edition of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo breaks down why Google quietly shut down a key tool that SEO platforms (and even ChatGPT) used to pull ranking results, and how this ripple effect could disrupt your marketing insights.
More importantly, Dr. Greg shares what this move tells us about Google’s strategy, the future of AI in search, and how practice owners can protect their visibility online. Whether you’re running ads, tracking SEO performance, or relying on agencies, this update is a wake-up call to rethink your digital strategy.
You’ll learn:
What exactly changed in September, and why it matters
How this affects dental SEO tracking tools and agencies
Google’s bigger play against AI and what it means for your practice
Practical steps you can take right now to stay ahead
Don’t miss this timely conversation; it could shape how you approach online growth in the months ahead.
Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering dental practices; from chatbots on your website to automated appointment reminders and insurance FAQs. But is this technology improving patient experience, or is it commoditizing the heart of dentistry?
In this solo episode of CEO Chairside with Dr. Greg Grillo, we dive into how AI is reshaping the dental front desk. Dr. Grillo explores:
Real stories of practices using AI for new patient scheduling and collections
Where AI adds profit and efficiency (after-hours booking, insurance, payments)
The risks of over-promising, cold interactions, and damaging patient trust
Lessons from airlines, banking, and healthcare on the limits of automation
How to position AI as a digital assistant — not a replacement for your team
If you’re a dental CEO, practice owner, or team leader, this episode will help you decide: will AI replace your front desk, or will it empower them to deliver an even better patient experience?
In this insightful episode of CEO Chairsight, Dr. Greg Grillo and Dr. Julie Kellogg delve into the intricate journey of identity transition within the field of dentistry. As they explore the challenges and opportunities that come with evolving beyond the traditional role of a dentist, they share personal stories and professional insights.
Discover how embracing new identities can lead to fulfillment and growth, and learn about the importance of storytelling in navigating these transitions. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode offers valuable perspectives on redefining success and finding purpose beyond the operatory.
In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo shares actionable strategies to boost your practice's profitability without extending your work hours or raising fees. Discover how small, strategic changes can lead to significant financial gains, as Dr. Grillo walks you through a 90-day framework designed to optimize efficiency and enhance your bottom line. Tune in to learn about quick wins, schedule efficiency, and leveraging your hygiene department for maximum impact. Don't miss out on these insights that can transform your practice's financial health!
In this conversation, Dr. Greg Grillo and one of the SEO industry's top strategists, Monty Hobson, delve into the intricacies of SEO in the dental industry. Explore how AI and wearables are revolutionizing local SEO, making proximity more critical than ever. Discover the groundbreaking concept of Search Everywhere Optimization, where your practice's visibility extends beyond traditional search engines to platforms like ChatGPT and wearables. Imagine a future where thinking-activated AI transforms patient interactions. This episode is packed with insights to future-proof your practice's growth and visibility. #AIinDentistry #FutureOfSEO #SearchEverywhere
In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo dives into one of the most exciting and talked-about topics in dentistry today: AI. From diagnostics to patient communication, AI is reshaping how dental practices operate and deliver care. But with so many options on the market, how can dental professionals separate the hype from the real deal?
Dr. Grillo discusses the practical uses of AI in dentistry, including tools for reading X-rays, improving patient communication, and even automating clinical notes. He also provides a realistic perspective on what's working now, what's still evolving, and the potential impact of AI on practice efficiency, profitability, and patient care.
Whether you're considering integrating AI into your practice or just trying to stay ahead of the curve, this episode offers valuable insights and tips. Dr. Grillo shares his experience with AI tools and explains why dental professionals should approach this technology with both curiosity and caution.
Tune in for a down-to-earth conversation on how AI is changing dentistry — and why it’s not just a trend, but the future of the profession.
In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Amanda Tavoularis takes us behind the scenes of her evolution from early practice ownership to becoming a respected Kois mentor and systems-driven leader. She opens up about the pivotal moments that reshaped her approach to leadership, the first systems she implemented (and what she learned the hard way), and how her mindset shifted as her practice matured.
You’ll hear how she balances strategy with trust, the metrics that matter most now, and the advice she wishes she could give her younger self. If you’re navigating your own growth as a dental leader—or looking to avoid common pitfalls—this episode is packed with clarity, candor, and real-world insight.
Topics We Cover:
The turning point that changed her leadership path
Early systems and the surprising lessons they taught her
Evolving beyond micromanagement
How Kois and other mentors shaped her growth
Practice metrics that drive smarter decisions
The one thing she waited too long to do (but now swears by)
Whether you’re just starting out or refining a mature practice, Dr. Tavoularis’s journey will leave you inspired—and a little more prepared for what’s ahead.
Let me know if you'd like a shorter version for social media or episode artwork.
In this short pilot episode, Dr. Greg Grillo welcomes you to CEO Chairside—a new kind of podcast for dentists who are ready to think beyond the operatory. Whether you're building a practice, leading a team, or planning for a future transition, this show explores the real stories, strategies, and challenges that shape the business side of dentistry.
Dr. Grillo shares the why behind the podcast, what you can expect from each episode, and how this journey will help you grow as both a clinician and a CEO. Get ready for practical wisdom, candid conversations, and the kind of insight you wish you’d learned in dental school.
👉 Tune in, subscribe, and take your seat at the CEO Chairside.
