Daily Dental Podcast
Episodes
852. Progress Over Perfection
22 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Dr. Killeen talks about the hidden cost of perfectionism. In dentistry and leadership, chasing the final 5% of perfection can ...
851. Every Yes Has a Hidden No
21 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen talks about a simple but important idea: every yes comes with a hidden no. In a busy dental practice, it’s easy to say yes to extra task...
850. The Power of Considering New Ideas
20 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Dr. Killeen talks about a powerful quote from Aristotle: “It is the mark of an educated man to be able to entertain a though...
849. Interrupt the Automatic Yes
19 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen explores a powerful idea from behavioral economics about how busy schedules shrink our mental bandwidth. When we feel rushed, we st...
848. Train Your Eye
18 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen explores how observation is a skill that shapes the way we experience our day. In dentistry, we are trained to spot probl...
847. Know Your Direction
15 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen reflects on a quote from Seneca that highlights the importance of clarity. In a busy dental practice, it is easy to confuse movement with ...
846. Confidence to Start, Humility to Grow
14 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen explores the balance between confidence and humility, and why both are essential for growth. Confidence helps you take action and move for...
845. Your Purpose for This Season
13 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen shares a perspective on purpose: instead of trying to define one lifelong mission, focus on what matters most in your current seaso...
844. Three Rules for Better Leadership
12 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a framework from Coach Lou Holtz that applies perfectly to dentistry and leadership: do the right thing, do the be...
843. Managing vs. Leading
11 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen explores an important distinction between management and leadership in a dental practice. Management is about keeping the daily tasks movi...
842. History Leaves Cues
08 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen discusses a powerful idea inspired by historian Timothy Snyder: understanding patterns from the past can help us make better decisions in ...
841. What Patients Are Really Buying
07 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a powerful reminder about case acceptance and patient communication. Patients are not truly buying crowns, aligner...
840. Lean Into Discomfort
06 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen offers a perspective to help reframe tough or demanding days in the practice. While comfort is everywhere in modern life, real growth tend...
839. Build Belief First
05 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen breaks down an idea behind motivation that many leaders overlook. While we often focus on energy or incentives, true motivation com...
838. The Power of Staying Consistent
04 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen reflects on a quote from Charlie Munger and how the idea of waiting applies far beyond investing. In a dental practice, real success rarel...
837. Think Beyond Your Field
01 May 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen explores the idea that while specialization is important, some of the most valuable insights come from outside your field...
836. Smart People, Better Decisions
30 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen explores an important truth that intelligence alone does not guarantee good decisions. History shows that even highly capable leaders can ...
835. Borrowing Better Decisions
29 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen takes a closer look at how we make decisions and why the biggest ones are often the hardest. While small choices fill our day, it is the l...
834. It's Supposed to Feel Messy
28 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a refreshing perspective on what success actually feels like in real time. While success stories often sound smoot...
833. Real Power in Leadership
27 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen reflects on a simple idea from Lao Tzu that carries real weight in leadership. While it is easy to focus on directing others, true ...
832. Let Go of Perfect
24 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen reflects on a quote from Albert Ellis about how rigid expectations can quietly create frustration. When we tell ourselves things mu...
831. Stay in the Arena
23 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen shares a powerful perspective that the person who loses often has more in common with the person who wins than with the one who never trie...
830. From Passenger to Driver
22 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple shift that can change how your days feel. It is easy to fall into reaction mode, responding to constant d...
829. When Everything is Amazing
21 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen explores a timely question as AI and technology continue to advance: when everything is amazing, what actually becomes sp...
828. The Doorman Fallacy
20 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen shares a powerful idea from Rory Sutherland that highlights a common mistake in business. When we focus only on what is easy to measure, w...
827. The Time We Think We Have
17 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen shares a perspective on time that can quietly change how we show up at home and in our lives. While day to day routines with family can fe...
826. The Wisdom You Already Have
16 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode, Dr. Killeen explores Solomon’s Paradox, the idea that we often give better advice to others than we do to ourselves. When we...
825. Pause Before You React
15 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen explores how social media can quietly influence the way we think and respond. While it is a powerful tool for learning and connecti...
824. Aim Higher
14 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a powerful idea from Nicolai Tangen about ambition and how it shapes outcomes. When goals are small, even suc...
823. Built Through the Struggle
13 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen shares a simple but important reminder that confidence is not built only through success. While things going well help build competence, t...
822. Earned Effortlessness
10 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen explores the idea of earned effortlessness through a well known story about Pablo Picasso. What looks quick and easy on the surface is oft...
821. Signal Over Noise
09 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down a powerful concept from Nassim Taleb about the difference between signal and noise. While signal represents t...
820. Ask Better Questions
08 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Killeen shares the story of physicist Isidor Rabi, whose mother asked him one simple question each day: did you ask a good question today? That sm...
819. Stay Curious, Stay Sharp
07 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a simple idea from Epictetus that carries lasting impact: we cannot learn what we think we already know. When...
818. The Power of Perspective
06 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Today, Dr. Killeen explores a simple but powerful idea that can transform how you lead and communicate in your practice: cultivating empathy. While of...
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...