NextGenDDS is BACK with a new season and host for 2026!✨ Dr. Scott Menaker is joined with new host, Mario Santiago, CPA, CFP, to discuss anything and everything dental students and young dentists need to know to be successful in their careers.

In this episode, Mario and Scott sit down to discuss the importance of building a strong team of advisors to lean on during your years in practice. This episode sets up the rest of the season, where Mario and Scott will spend each episode deep diving into specific types of advisors, such as transitions, financial, legal, and more.

Episodes will be released every other Friday for the rest of the spring semester! We hope you'll stick around to listen to them all.

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Want to submit a question that Mario and Scott will answer on the next episode? Submit them here or email us at newsletter@mcgillandlyon.com

If you're not already, subscribe to The McGill & Lyon Dental Advisory newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things practice management, tax saving, and more! Students and residents- sign up for your FREE membership here

Listen to our sister show, Drilling It Down! Listen as our expert advisors break down pertinent business topics for dentists and specialists, including investment commentary, reaching financial independence, and how to run an efficient practice.

In this episode of Next Gen DDS, co-hosts Wes Lyon and Dr. Scott Menaker explore the crucial role of personal branding in dental practices, asserting that successful branding goes beyond mere advertisements and service promotion. Wes argues against the misconception that purchasing a practice guarantees patient referrals, emphasizing that authentic patient care and communication are key to effective practice management. Drawing from his 38 years of experience, Dr. Menaker recalls how strong branding was built on personal relationships long before the digital age. The discussion offers tangible strategies for cultivating a robust brand, including timely patient interactions and the significance of accountability. Dr. Menaker illustrates how small gestures, like offering Starbucks gift cards for any delays, enhance patient experiences. They highlight the importance of training staff to embody the practice’s brand values, as a cohesive team strengthens the overall patient experience. Wes and Dr. Menaker motivate listeners to actively engage with their communities, foster genuine relationships, and build trust through intention and authenticity. The episode encourages emerging dental professionals to embrace vulnerability while nurturing their branding efforts, underscoring that every team member plays a vital role in shaping patient perceptions.

Want to submit a question that Wes and Scott will answer on the next episode? Submit them here or email us at newsletter@mcgillhillgroup.com.

If you're not already, subscribe to The McGill & Lyon Dental Advisory newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things practice management, tax saving, and more! Students and residents- sign up for your FREE membership here.

Listen to our sister show, Drilling It Down! Listen as our expert advisors break down pertinent business topics for dentists and specialists, including investment commentary, reaching financial independence, and how to run an efficient practice.

On this episode of NextGenDDS, hosts Wes Lyon and Dr. Scott Menaker explore the impact of distractions and disruptions faced by today's dental professionals. Wes opens the dialogue by sharing his enthusiasm for understanding how external factors influence new dentists' career paths. Dr. Menaker reflects on pivotal disruptions he experienced, from the AIDS crisis to COVID-19, and underscores the necessity of mental and financial preparedness for long-term success amidst unpredictability. The hosts highlight the critical role of establishing robust systems to mitigate disruption effects. Dr. Menaker stresses the importance of strategic thinking and long-term goal orientation in maintaining practice resilience. Wes introduces the idea of “floating” through challenges, advocating for an adaptable mindset while avoiding over-leveraging financially. They discuss the dangers of excessive spending on unneeded technology, drawing parallels to economic downturns like the 2008 crisis. The conversation also touches on distractions linked to digital connectivity. Dr. Menaker expresses frustration with how technology can hinder meaningful professional interactions and growth. Wes emphasizes the importance of focused work and nurturing uplifting relationships. They conclude by encouraging thoughtful communication and boundary-setting around technology use to balance personal and professional lives effectively.

Want to submit a question that Wes and Scott will answer on the next episode? Submit them here or email us at newsletter@mcgillhillgroup.com.

If you're not already, subscribe to The McGill & Lyon Dental Advisory newsletter to stay up-to-date on all things practice management, tax saving, and more! Students and residents- sign up for your FREE membership here.

Listen to our sister show, Drilling It Down! Listen as our expert advisors break down pertinent business topics for dentists and specialists, including investment commentary, reaching financial independence, and how to run an efficient practice.