Daily Dental Podcast

817. Three Seconds Better

03 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Killeen shares the inspiring story of Bonnie Sumner, a woman in her 70s who set a world record in the dead hang after starting with just 21 second...

816. What Survivorship Bias Can Teach Your Practice

02 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a powerful story from World War II that highlights a common thinking error called survivorship bias. By studying o...

815. Back to the Basics

01 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reminds us that real success in dentistry is rarely found in flashy ideas or new technology. It is built on consistently ...

814. The Power of Stepping Away

31 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares the famous story of Archimedes and his “Eureka” moment to highlight how breakthroughs often come when we least...

813. Getting Out of Your Own Way

30 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a lesson he has seen after coaching hundreds of dentists through the Dental Success Institute. Often, ...

812. Journaling as Your Personal Telescope

27 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple story about fixing a small telescope with his boys and how it sparked a powerful reflection about clarity...

811. You Cannot Build on Air

26 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen uses a simple idea from 3D printing to highlight an important lesson for dentistry and leadership. In 3D printing,...

810. Recognizing the Season You Are In

25 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the changing seasons across the country and how that simple shift is a reminder that life and dentistry move ...

809. A Quarter Into the Year Check In

24 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen pauses to reflect on the fact that we are already a quarter of the way through the year. It is the perfect moment to revi...

808. Dirty Fuel vs Clean Fuel

23 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a candid reflection about the different kinds of motivation that drive success. He talks about "dirty fuel&qu...

807. Investing in Experiences That Shape the Future

20 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about one of the most underrated ways to use money: creating meaningful experiences. Whether it is sending your tea...

806. A Vote for Your Future Self

19 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a perspective inspired by Morgan Housel, author of The Psychology of Money, and explores the idea that money doe...

805. Shaped by Struggle

18 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen kicks off with a surprising quote from C-3PO in Star Wars and connects it to a powerful insight from Viktor Frankl, ...

804. Internal Approval Over Outside Applause

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple but powerful analogy about investing in your home and how it reflects the way we build our lives and prac...

803. Forged in the Fire: Why Competence Builds Confidence

16 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a trend many dentists are seeing right now. Patients are still saying yes to treatment, but overall dollars a...

802. Learn It Well Enough to Teach It

13 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple learning strategy inspired by Richard Feynman that can level up your clinical skills, leadership...

801. Stay Curious, Stay Sharp

12 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about the kind of learning that never stops. Not CE credits or classroom time, but the everyday growth that keeps u...

800. One Size Does Not Fit All in Dentistry

11 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen unpacks a simple idea that applies to nearly every corner of dentistry. One size does not fit all. From choosing t...

799. 3D Scanning Beyond Restorative

10 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares why 3D scanning is one of the most powerful tools you can add to your new patient workflow. Using the iTero as an ...

798. What Are You Aiming Your Intelligence At?

09 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen challenges the traditional view of intelligence. It is not just about IQ, speed, or memorizing information. The real meas...

797. Preparing for the Unexpected

06 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a powerful idea about preparation and uncertainty. In dentistry, not every procedure goes according to plan, ...

796. The Hidden Cost of Overcommitment

05 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen explores what really happens when we overload our schedules and divide our attention too many ways. Drawing on res...

795. The Next Hour and The Next Ten Years

04 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple framework for thinking about time and priorities. He explains why the next hour is where discipline and f...

794. Learn What You Need, When You Need It

03 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple mental model that can sharpen decision making and reduce overwhelm. Knowledge is rooted in the past, but ...

793. When Comparison Steals Contentment

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on how comparison has shifted over time and why modern exposure to extreme lifestyles can quietly erode our sens...

792. Do Good as a Daily Practice

27 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the simple rule to do good and why it carries more weight than we often realize. He explores how small, consi...

791. Why Systemizing Takes Longer Than You Think

26 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen explains why introducing systems into your practice can feel slower and more frustrating than expected. Drawing on the st...

790. Stronger at the Cracks

25 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen uses the art of kintsugi to talk about why acknowledging our weaknesses is essential for real growth. He reflects on how ...

789. The Hidden Risk of Overconfidence

24 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares the story of the 1900 Galveston hurricane to explore how overconfidence can quietly create massive risk in leaders...

788. Sleep Better By Planning Tomorrow

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple evening habit that leads to better sleep and stronger mornings. By writing down tomorrow’s priorities a...

787. Keep Your Eyes on Your Own Path

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about the trap of comparison and why it quietly steals focus and momentum. He shares a grounded reminder that someo...

786. From Tasks to Purpose: Why Team Vision Matters

19 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen explains why vision is one of the most powerful tools a leader has. Using the classic stonecutter story, he shows how the...

785. The Hidden Costs of Rising Expectations

18 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down why expectations can quietly become your biggest liability to happiness, peace of mind, and even financial fr...

784. Looking for Answers Where the Light Is

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen explores why so many of us turn to Facebook and online groups for advice, and why that can quietly hold us back. Using a ...

783. Do What You Are Doing

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the phrase Age quod agis, which means do what you are doing. He talks about how constant distractions, even ...

782. The House You Are Building

13 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a story that has stayed with him since his time in St. Louis about a carpenter who learned too late that he was bu...

781. What Your Actions Really Say

12 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen explores the gap between the priorities we talk about and the priorities our actions reveal. It is a simple but unco...

780. Stand Near the Fire

11 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a favorite quote from C. S. Lewis and how it applies to growth in dentistry, leadership, and life. Real ...

779. You Are Not the Finished Version

10 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on an old photo and a powerful idea from psychology called the End of History Illusion. We tend to believe we ar...

778. Busy Isn’t the Same as Moving Forward

09 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen challenges the obsession with time management and productivity. Being efficient only matters after you are clear on direc...

777. The Hidden Cause of Overwhelm for Leaders

06 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down the Zeigarnik Effect and why unfinished tasks are such a mental drain for practice owners and leaders. When w...

776. Overwhelm Is Not a Time Problem

05 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a recent talk by Mark Costes and unpacks what overwhelm really is and why so many dentists are stuck in it. T...

775. Why the Best Leadership Habits Don’t Feel Good (At First)

04 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple but powerful idea from James Clear about good habits versus bad habits and why leadership habits can feel...

774. The Hidden Cost (and Payoff) of Leadership Habits

03 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a lesson from James Clear about why good habits are hard and why bad habits are easy. He connects that idea t...

773. Why the Ending Matters in Treatment Conversations

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down the Peak–End Rule and why it plays such a big role in how patients remember treatment discussions and make ...

772. Pull One Lever at a Time

30 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen breaks business down to its basics: there are only two ways to build a healthier practice—grow revenue or cut expe...

771. Focus on the Next Step

29 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why so much stress comes from trying to control timelines and outcomes we don’t actually have power ov...

770. The IKEA Effect and Why Your Systems Should Be Built, Not Borrowed

28 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down the IKEA Effect—a concept from behavioral psychology that explains why we value what we help create. He con...

769. Strengthening Hygiene: Numbers, Hiring, and Playing the Long Game

27 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen revisits one of the most important fundamentals in any dental practice—the hygiene department. He walks through a few k...

768. Motion is Medicine: Start the Day with Momentum

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple but powerful idea: do something physical every day. He talks about how even a short walk or quick wo...

767. Know Your Number: Why Practice Value Matters Early

23 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why every dentist should have a clear retirement target—and why valuing your practice long before you plan ...

766. Lead With Understanding, Not Answers

22 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about a small leadership shift that can make a big difference in your practice. When team members bring problems, o...

765. You Only Get 4,000 Weeks

21 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen steps away from productivity talk and zooms out to something bigger: time. With the reminder that the average life is onl...

764. Hiring for Culture Starts in the Interview

20 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why most bad hires aren’t about skill—they’re about culture fit. He walks through how to actually use y...

763. Real Core Values (Not the Ones on the Wall)

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down what real core values actually look like—through the lens of Gino Wickman and the EOS framework. He talks...

762. Pay It Forward: Why Teaching Makes You Better

16 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the teachers, mentors, and leaders who shape us—and why the real way to honor them is by paying it forward....

761. A Conversation With Your 80-Year-Old Self

15 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen invites you to imagine a quick but powerful conversation with your 80-year-old self. What would they beg you to stop post...

760. The Pebble in Your Shoe

14 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a favorite Muhammad Ali quote: “It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebbl...

759. Don’t Agree Too Fast

13 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about a counterintuitive leadership idea: agreeing too quickly can actually shut down great conversations. Using a ...

758. Simple Rules for a Better 2026

12 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a set of practical “rules to live by” inspired by Ryan Holiday—perfect for anyone stepping into a new season...

Weekend Special Episode with Dr. Nick Cudney

10 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

On today’s episode, Dr. Killeen sits down with his friend Dr. Nick Cudney, an oral surgeon from the Chicago area. They have a relaxed, wide-ranging ...

757. Core Values You Actually Live

09 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen digs into core values — not the kind that live on a poster in the break room, but the kind your team and patients exper...

756. The Power of a Simple 1-on-1

08 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why 1-on-1 conversations are one of the most underrated leadership tools in a dental practice. With a si...

755. Why Your Environment Beats Willpower Every Time

07 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down a simple but powerful idea: willpower alone isn’t enough — your environment matters more than you th...

754. Are We Addicted to Our Phones… or Just Trying to Escape?

06 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen takes a fresh look at our relationship with our phones as we continue building better habits for the year. What if w...

753. Big Rocks First

05 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

As the new year gets rolling, Dr. Killeen revisits a simple but powerful idea: the difference between big rocks, pebbles, and sand. Using this classic...

752. Right People, Right Seats

02 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

A long line at Chipotle turns into a leadership lesson. Today, Dr. Killeen shares why even great people can struggle when they’re in the wrong role—...

751. Sandwiches, Pizza, and Being Present

01 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

As the new year kicks off, Dr. Killeen shares a simple (and funny) story that turns into a powerful reminder about focus and presence. From dentistry ...

750. Leadership Check-Ins: Are You Doing a Good Job?

31 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Today on the Daily Dental Podcast, Dr. Killeen shares a leadership insight inspired by the former CEO of Panera—and it flips the usual script on acc...

749. The Power of “Exactly”: A Simple Communication Shift That Builds Trust

30 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple but powerful communication idea that can completely change how conversations feel—with patients, t...

748. Reading Between the Lines (and Faces)

29 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Today on the Daily Dental Podcast, Dr. Killeen shares insights from a fascinating article about facial expressions—and why we so often misread what ...

747. Just Keep Rowing: Grit, Big Goals, and Seeing Land

26 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Killeen shares the incredible story of two women who rowed nonstop across the Pacific—and why their journey is a powerful lesson for dentistry, ...

746. Why Love Always Wins

25 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

On this Christmas episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on love—what it really means, and why it’s far more powerful than approval, respect, or playing it...

745. Don’t Wrestle the Pig

24 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a timely reminder for the holidays: not every argument is worth engaging in. Using a classic saying and a few comm...

744. What Are You Reading, Really?

23 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a simple but powerful question: what are you actually reading these days? He looks at how some of history’s...

743. The Donkey Principle: When to Walk Away

22 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple (and funny) story about a donkey, a tiger, and a lion that carries a surprisingly powerful lesson. He con...

742. Just a Suggestion, Not a Rule

19 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen rewinds to 1903, when the Wright Brothers took flight just weeks after being told humans probably never would. From there...

741. Pickleball, Mountain Bikes, and Filling Your Tank

18 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen shares why time spent off the clock—whether on a pickleball court or flying down a mountain bike trail—isn’t w...

740. Turning 40 and Turning Toward Gratitude

17 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on turning 40 and what birthdays look like when you start measuring life a little differently. He talks abo...

739. The Trust Formula Behind a Strong Dental Brand

16 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down a simple but powerful trust formula from The Trusted Advisor by Charles H. Green and explains why trust is ...

738. Seeing the Whole Picture: Perspective in Leadership

15 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen looks back at the DAT’s perceptual ability section and realizes it was teaching something far more useful than anyone e...

737. Why the Underdog Energy Still Matters

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why people naturally root for those who stay humble—and quietly pull away from those who forget where they ...

736. Stop Avoiding the Problem—That’s the Opportunity

11 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen flips the script on how we think about growth. Instead of constantly searching for the next big opportunity, what if...

735. When Inner Alignment Matters More Than Approval

10 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a powerful and unexpected story about G. Dep, a rapper who carried the weight of a single decision for nearly two ...

734. The Power of Doing It Together

09 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple mindset shift that makes hard things feel a whole lot easier: don’t go it alone. From business cha...

733. The End-of-Year Autopsy: A Clearer Path Forward

08 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen challenges you to do something most practice owners avoid—a year-end autopsy. Not the morbid kind, but an honest, ...

732. The 3 Big Ideas That Drive Personal Growth

05 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this final episode of the series inspired by Poor Charlie’s Almanack, Dr. Killeen shifts the focus to you. He unpacks the three core ideas that ...

731. The 3 Big Ideas Behind Strong Dental Leadership

04 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In Episode 6 of the series inspired by Poor Charlie’s Almanack, Dr. Killeen breaks down leadership into the three principles that really move the n...

730. The 3 Communication Habits That Build Real Trust

03 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In Episode 5 of our Charlie Munger-inspired series, Dr. Killeen explores the three communication concepts that quietly drive better patient relationsh...

729. The 3 Scheduling Ideas That Drive 80% of Your Results

02 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In Episode 4 of our Charlie Munger-inspired series, Dr. Killeen breaks down the three core scheduling principles that make the biggest impact in your ...

728. The 3 Big Financial Ideas Every Dentist Should Master

01 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen continues his Charlie Munger-inspired series by breaking down the three big financial ideas that every dentist needs to ...

727. The 3 Big Ideas That Run Great Practices

28 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen continues his short series inspired by Charlie Munger’s philosophy of mastering the “big ideas.” Today, he dives in...

726. The 3 Big Ideas That Drive Great Dentistry

27 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen kicks off a short series inspired by Charlie Munger’s timeless wisdom: master the big ideas, and you’ll master t...

725. Finding the Gap: What Epictetus Can Teach Us About Control

26 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen draws inspiration from the Stoic philosopher Epictetus, who taught that while we can’t control what happens to us, we c...

724. Building Koinonea: The Power of True Connection in Dentistry

25 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen unpacks the Greek word Koinonea—a term that means much more than just “community.” It’s about shared purpose, ge...

723. High Expectations, High Support: The Foundation of Strong Relationships

24 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen unpacks a powerful principle that shapes great teams, families, and leaders alike: pairing high expectations with ...

722. Avoid the Curse of Knowledge: Making Your Message Clear

21 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, Dr. Killeen dives into a common leadership trap: assuming others understand what we mean. Known as the “curse of knowledge,” it h...

721. Be the Coffee Bean: Choosing Your Response to Pressure

20 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen shares a powerful lesson from The Coffee Bean by Jon Gordon and Damon West. Life—and dentistry—can feel like a...

720. The Hidden Price of Growth

19 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen reminds us that everything worthwhile in life and business comes with a cost of entry. Whether it’s self-doubt, un...

719. Time Well Spent: Finding the Activities That Recharge You

18 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on why hobbies like pickleball and mountain biking aren’t about money—they’re about energy, focus, an...