Best Business Benchmark Group Podcasts (2025)

1
New Metrics and New Benchmarks to Thrive in 2025 and Beyond 49:37

Play Pause

4h ago49:37

49:37

Running a successful dental practice in 2025 takes more than production numbers. In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share the five essential metrics every dentist should track to build a profitable, patient-focused, and stress-free practice. Learn how to shift from production to profitability, reduce PPO d…

1
SALT Deduction Expansion: How the OBBB Impacts High Income Earners in 2025 - EP. 187 13:06

10h ago13:06

13:06

Summary This episode explores the newly expanded SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB), focusing on its impact for high-income earners and residents of high-tax states. Key Points Covered SALT Deduction Expansion: The cap on SALT deductions jumps from $10,000 to $40,000, a major relief for households earni…

1
Understanding Group Dentistry with Ian McNickle 47:44

9d ago47:44

47:44

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs talks with Ian McNickle, CEO of Icon Dental Partners, about the shift from DSOs to Dental Partnership Organizations (DPOs) and how they’re reshaping dentistry. Discover how true clinical autonomy, stronger ownership opportunities, and smart staffing solutions help dentists reduce insura…

1
What is ROI and how to you can best use this benchmark your progress. 25:43

7d ago25:43

25:43

This week, Liz and Tony discuss return on investment (ROI) and how business owners and marketing professionals can utilize a specific formula to calculate and leverage ROI for progress. Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic communicators who practice marketing, public relations, media relations and digital strategies. Learn more by visiting: http:/…

1
Retirement Tax Changes Explained: What Every Senior Needs to Know About OBBB - EP. 186 15:40

8d ago15:40

15:40

Summary This episode breaks down the real impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBB) on seniors and Social Security, clarifying misconceptions spread by headlines and political messaging. Key Points Covered OBBB’s Actual Impact: Contrary to headlines, the OBBB does not eliminate taxes on Social Security. It introduces a modest tax deduction fo…

1
Benchmarking the Future: AE Firm Performance Insights with Monograph and Zweig Group 1:01:56

17d ago1:01:56

1:01:56

“Whatever is the hardest path is probably the path we should be on. The hardest path is also the least traveled.” Robert Yuen Episode Summary: In this episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast, host Randy Wilburn is joined by Robert Yuen of Monograph and Mark Zweig of Zweig Group for a candid conversation around the future of A/E firm management. Togethe…

1
A Strategy to Help your Patients Accept Conservative Periodontal Therapy when Clinical Signs and Symptoms Indicate the Need. 50:26

13d ago50:26

50:26

Struggling with patients rejecting periodontal therapy? In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share proven strategies to increase patient acceptance of conservative periodontal therapy, highlight the oral-systemic health connection, and provide simple verbal skills for hygienists to boost gum disease treatment acceptance and grow hygiene…

1
The Truth About Social Security Taxes in 2025: History, Politics, and Your Future - EP. 185 17:28

15d ago17:28

17:28

Summary In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we dive into the complex history and current challenges of Social Security, especially in light of the recently passed "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" (OBBB). Follow along as we clarify misconceptions, explain the evolution of Social Security, and discuss the impact of new legislation on benefits and taxatio…

1
31.8% of US Dentists are Planning to Resign from PPO Plans in 2025 44:11

25d ago44:11

44:11

By 2025, almost one-third of US dentists are expected to resign from PPO plans. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reveal why rising costs, wage pressures, and shrinking reimbursements are making PPO participation unsustainable—and how many practices are unknowingly losing $500k+ each year in write-offs. You’ll also learn Gary’s prove…

1
Did Cracker Barrel Just Serve Us New Coke? 36:11

22d ago36:11

36:11

It's been all over the news, social and in our psyche of pop culture, the recent Cracker Barrel rebrand. With a mea culpa issued only seven days after launch, many view this as one of the worst mis-steps in recent corporate branding. Today, Tony and Liz discuss similarities between the launch of New Coke in 1985 and how it followed the same fate. T…

1
Think Before You Withdraw: How to Protect Your Retirement Future - EP. 184 31:32

22d ago31:32

31:32

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we dive into the essential world of financial planning, with a special focus on managing your 401k. We tackle common misconceptions about retirement funds and their restricted use, shedding light on the importance of strategic planning to avoid financial pitfalls. We also explore the Secure 2.0 Act, which introdu…

1
Profit Killers in Your Practice You’re Probably Ignoring 46:54

1M ago46:54

46:54

Are hidden profit killers draining your dental practice? In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reveal 4 overlooked areas — from mishandled new patient calls to weak treatment follow-ups — that could be costing you thousands. Learn simple, proven strategies to boost conversions, improve case acceptance, and strengthen practice profitabili…

1
What the Heck is a KPI? 24:14

29d ago24:14

24:14

Ever get confused with all of the acronyms marketers used to describe campaigns, measure results and then provide data? Well, KPI is one of the greatest of those confusion creators! Liz and Tony discuss what KPIs are, how to use them effectively and what they can mean for both a marketer and business owner. Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic com…

1
Avoid Common Pitfalls: Tips for Effective Retirement Planning - EP. 183 30:02

1M ago30:02

30:02

In this episode of Ditch the Suits, we delve into the unique experiences and challenges that arise when people approach us with financial questions in social settings. We explore the often guarded nature of individuals when it comes to discussing their finances openly and the complexities of providing advice based on limited information. Our conver…

1
How to Build a Marketing Funnel That Actually Brings in New Patients 58:29

1M ago58:29

58:29

In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share the 4 proven steps to building a dental marketing funnel that attracts quality new patients and gets them to book—without depending on PPO plans. Discover how to rank higher with SEO, use Google reviews and patient stories to build trust, and train your team to turn calls into appointments. Lis…

1
Analytics: The Science of Understanding and Listening to Consumers 29:21

1M ago29:21

29:21

Marketers need to embrace the importance of analytics in their daily lives. Whether a simple vanity telephone number, survey or more advanced tools such as Google Looksee or Lucky Orange, the voodoo behind marketing can all be revealed through understanding the importance of listening to a consumer. Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic communicato…

1
Understanding Fiduciary Roles in Financial Planning: Achieve Your Financial Goals - EP. 182 33:19

1M ago33:19

33:19

Ever cornered a financial advisor at a party with your burning money questions? In this episode, Travis Maus and Kerstin Driscoll-Witt unpack the hilariously awkward—and surprisingly insightful—moments when finance meets finger food. From retirement myths to crypto confusion, they tackle the big questions people should be asking (but usually don’t)…

1
Why Your New Patient Experience Could Make or Break Your Practice 57:58

2M ago57:58

57:58

Discover why the new patient experience in dentistry is the key to case acceptance and loyalty. Gary Takacs shares a 7-step process to improve patient trust, reduce PPO dependence, and transition to a fee for-service dental practice.

1
A Swifty Discusses the Brilliance of Taylor Swift's Albums, Songs and Branding 35:40

1M ago35:40

35:40

Well, if you didn't know it, it is the dawn of a new ERA! Specifically, the Orange and Glitter Era. Our resident Swifty, and co-host, Liz Hersh is ready to share all of the Swifty she has within her as she and Tony Vann discuss the many layers of how the Taylor Swift empire has given a masterclass as to how carve a path for marketing, branding and …

1
The Benchmark Mirage: Why Beating the Market Isn't The Whole Story - EP. 181 27:18

2M ago27:18

27:18

In this episode, Travis Maus and Brad Eaton pull back the curtain on one of Wall Street’s favorite illusions: the idea that you can—or should—try to beat the market. They dive into why benchmarks like the S&P 500, aren’t always what they seem and how the financial industry uses them to sell you a story that might not serve your goals. You’ll hear w…

1
Seven Goals of a Thriving Practice 50:06

2M ago50:06

50:06

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and co-host Naren Arulrajah reveal seven goals that can transform your dental practice into one that delivers greater profit, satisfaction, and balance. Gary explains how these goals work together to help you control overhead, achieve financial independence, build a strong team, and enjoy a …

1
Battling the Temptations of Distractions and Marketers and Entrepreneurs 22:59

2M ago22:59

22:59

This week, Liz and Tony discuss the ever-growing temptations of marketing and communicating along with the importance of maintaining focus while growing a business through thoughtful and measurable implementation of critical tools. Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic communicators who practice marketing, public relations, media relations and digi…

1
The Role of Compounding Wealth Building - EP. 180 28:04

2M ago28:04

28:04

In this episode, Travis Maus and Brad Eaton pull back the curtain on market volatility and the emotional rollercoaster it creates for investors. They break down why chasing short-term wins often leads to long-term regrets, and how misunderstanding risk and volatility can sabotage your financial future. You’ll hear real talk about the myths investor…

1
Tips To Control Your Team Member Wages Within Budget 50:24

2M ago50:24

50:24

In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah address a critical financial challenge in dental practices; how to keep team member wages within a sustainable budget. With inflation and wage expectations on the rise, this episode outlines actionable strategies to maintain financial health without compromising team sati…

1
How AI is changing the landscape of strategic communications 19:21

2M ago19:21

19:21

For the first-ever episode of Tales from the Dirt Road, co-hosts Liz Hersh and Tony Vann dive into one of the most prevalent and somewhat controversial topic of artificial intelligence and the tech's impact on strategic communicators. Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic communicators who practice marketing, public relations, media relations and d…

1
Navigating Investor Challenges in Today's Markets - EP. 179 33:31

2M ago33:31

33:31

In this episode, Travis Maus and Brad Eaton dive into something every investor feels but doesn’t always say out loud — the emotional rollercoaster of trying to make smart decisions in a chaotic market. They unpack how the constant flood of news and market noise can mess with your head, and why it’s so easy to confuse price with value. More importan…

1
Can You Raise Fees and Retain Patients? 45:31

2M ago45:31

45:31

Can you increase your fees without losing patients? In this powerful episode, Gary Takacs and co-host Naren Arulrajah explore the truth behind dental pricing strategies and why many practices leave tens of thousands of dollars on the table. You'll discover how a data-driven, annually recalibrated fee structure can significantly boost profitability,…

1
Financial Advisors and Financial Vultures - EP. 178 42:31

2M ago42:31

42:31

In this episode, Travis Maus and Jess Blake get into a topic that’s way too common — financial vultures. You know, the ones who circle around when you’re unsure, overwhelmed, or just trying to do the right thing with your money. They break down how these predators operate, why so many people fall for slick sales pitches, and what you can do to prot…

1
Season 8: Episode 3 – The Luxury Edit (Part Three) 51:21

2M ago51:21

51:21

We invite you to explore the world of modern luxury—a place where artistry meets experience. This three-part film series is a journey into the heart of indulgence, revealing the stories, skill, and passion behind the world’s most exclusive experiences.Join Helen Bywater-Smith, alongside Ipsos Luxury Expert Stéphane Paoli and Channel Performance lea…

1
Marketing Lessons Learned from Thriving Practices 44:11

2M ago44:11

44:11

Want to attract better patients, reduce PPO dependence, and grow your practice with confidence? In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share real-world marketing lessons from thriving practices. Discover what actually works, why most dental marketing fails, and how top practices grow with long-term strategy. B…

1
How To Achieve Financial Freedom - EP. 177 29:39

3M ago29:39

29:39

In this episode, Travis Maus and Jess Blake pull back the curtain on what really separates those who crush their financial goals from those who stay stuck in the struggle. Spoiler alert: it’s not just about how much money you make. They dive into the power of mindset, why clarity in your financial plan is non-negotiable, and how taking small, consi…

1
Season 8: Episode 2 - The Luxury Edit (Part Two) 34:11

3M ago34:11

34:11

We invite you to explore the world of modern luxury—a place where artistry meets experience. This three-part film series is a journey into the heart of indulgence, revealing the stories, skill, and passion behind the world’s most exclusive experiences.Join Helen Bywater-Smith, alongside Ipsos Luxury Expert Stéphane Paoli and Channel Performance lea…

1
First Episode Promo 1 1:25

3M ago1:25

1:25

Meet your hosts of Tales from the Dirt Road, Liz Hersh and Tony Vann! The first episode drops on July 29, 2025. Make sure you listen and subscribe so you can catch each new episode as they drop each Tuesday! Liz Hersh and Tony Vann are strategic communicators who practice marketing, public relations, media relations and digital strategies. Learn mo…

1
A 21st Century Placement Agency With Trey Tepichin 38:09

3M ago38:09

38:09

Struggling to hire quality dental team members? Staffing issues shouldn't hold your practice back. In this episode of the Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs interviews Trey Tepichin, co-founder of Cloud Dentistry, about a smarter, tech-powered way to solve today’s dental staffing crisis. You’ll discover why traditional hiring methods like job board…

1
Mistakes That Could Cost You Financial Freedom - EP. 176 30:01

3M ago30:01

30:01

In this episode of "Ditch the Suits," Travis Maus, CEO of S.E.E.D. Planning Group, and guest Jessica Blake, a Senior Wealth Manager, explore the concept of financial freedom beyond just accumulating wealth. They discuss common misconceptions, emphasizing that financial freedom is not merely about being rich but understanding and prioritizing one's …

1
Season 8: Episode 1 – The Luxury Edit (Part One) 32:36

3M ago32:36

32:36

We invite you to explore the world of modern luxury—a place where artistry meets experience. This three-part film series is a journey into the heart of indulgence, revealing the stories, skill, and passion behind the world’s most exclusive experiences.Join Helen Bywater-Smith, alongside Ipsos Luxury Expert Stéphane Paoli and Channel Performance lea…

1
Four Specific Strategies For Building A Thriving Practice That Provides Lasting Success 44:06

3M ago44:06

44:06

What does it take to build a dental practice that’s not only profitable today but still thriving decades from now? In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, dental business coach Gary Takacs and co-host Naren Arulrajah reveal four proven strategies for long-term success in dentistry. You'll learn how to build a rock-solid dental practice founda…