2579: Why Associates Leave and How To Keep Them

2579: Why Associates Leave and How To Keep Them

Author: Dental Consulting August 20, 2026 Duration: 58:38

On today's episode, Dr. Paul Goodman, also known as Dr. Nacho, speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about why associate dentists leave and how practice owners can create a more fulfilling, aligned experience for them. With his signature humor and practical communication style, Paul shares how the words dentists use can shape trust, reduce fear, and make the dental office feel less "weird" for patients and team members. 

He breaks down key reasons associate relationships go sideways, from unclear expectations and poor interview processes to lack of mentorship, toxic culture, and pay confusion. Paul also introduces the "M&Ms" that matter most to associate dentists: money, mentorship, morale, and meeting expectations, while encouraging owners to create better systems, more transparency, stronger training, and a culture that helps associates thrive.

Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast!

EPISODE RESOURCES


Running a dental practice is about so much more than clinical skills; it's a complex business that demands leadership, strategy, and personal resilience. The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes directly addresses that reality, moving past generic advice to offer concrete conversations for growth. Each episode features in-depth discussions with leading voices from dentistry and beyond, focusing on the actionable lessons that have shaped their success. You'll hear candid explorations of practice profitability, team management, systems efficiency, and the personal development required to lead effectively. The dialogue acknowledges the unique pressures and isolation that can come with the profession, providing a sense of community and practical solutions. This isn't just about working harder, but about working smarter to build a practice that supports a more balanced and fulfilling life. By translating high-level business and entrepreneurial concepts into the specific context of a dental office, the podcast serves as a ongoing resource for dentists who see themselves as innovators and business owners. Tune in for honest stories, strategic insights, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive both in the operator and in the marketplace.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes
Podcast Episodes
2580: The Truth About Going Out of Network [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2578: Grow for What [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2577: Protecting Capital in a Chaotic Economy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2576: From Navy Dentistry to Practice Ownership [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2575: How to Keep Your Team Compliant and Supported [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2574: Turning Hygiene Challenges Into Practice Growth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:18
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2573: The Stress-Free Hygiene System [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:21
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2572: The Daily Money System Every Practice Owner Needs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:10
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2571: Training the Next Generation of Dental Assistants [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:38
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Dr. Heather Dawn Lawson Myers for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, team development, and the future of dental assisting. Dr. Lawson Myers shares he…
2570: Better Patient Care Starts With Better Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:09
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