communication
Using Free Information to Propel Your Practice Forward
by Bethany Petty
I am old enough to remember when books and articles were the only source of new and exciting information . Research projects required trips to the library , and tools for running a business always cost something . After years of taking part in my father ’ s general dental practice , I had built up a nice bookshelf of training binders , magazine articles , and books . Yet , I longed for the connection with other practice owners , managers , and out-ofthe box thinkers . When the urge to learn from others became overwhelming , I would jump in a car and head to the nearest dental conference and immerse myself in two days of way too much information . Then , I would drive back trying diligently to retain all of the good ideas .
Life has changed . Information is now much more easily obtained . Over the past eighteen years , the scope of the podcasting world has exploded . Eager listeners and learners can find a variety of remarkable topics ranging from raising chickens to international relations to managing a dental practice . Through this one tool ( or app ), dentists and dental team members are instantly connected with thousands of other people in their field . Ideas are shared . Inspiration is birthed . Connections are built – all without spending a penny or truly meeting anybody .
Avid podcast listeners experience numerous benefits from digesting various topics and episodes . Dental practice owners gain new ideas while utilizing void time . The most common podcast listening times are when driving or exercising . Because podcasting occurs at these otherwise void times , the investment of time does not steal from another aspect of life . Essentially , the necessary drive to and from work is now maximized with energy , connection , and inspiration . Exposure to a variety of professionals all in one place is simply never going to occur at in-person events . The options of experts available in podcast form are endless . Many of these experts build hundreds of episodes of valuable content that is absolutely free to the listener .
Some dental professionals are overwhelmed at all of the podcast options available and are not sure where to start . Here is a list of some of my favorite podcasts :
The John Maxwell Leadership Podcast . Practice owners are leaders , and many struggle with how to lead well . In addition to his numerous wonderful books on leadership , John Maxwell ’ s podcast has become yet another source of inspiration for business owners . Through conversations with leaders , reflections on speeches given by Maxwell , and evaluating leadership techniques , the podcast encourages listeners to become transformational . The episode description section often provides additional resources for those who wish to positively impact others .
A Bit of Optimism by Simon Sinek . In addition to authoring numerous impactful books , Simon Sinek , began a podcast several months after the onset of the pandemic . His goal in these short episodes is to spread positivity . In each episode , Sinek inter-
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