In this episode of The Lifestyle Practice Podcast, host Dr. Steve Van De Graaff addresses the overwhelming burden of student loans for new dentists. Steve discusses strategies for managing and paying off student debt, including utilizing the new SAVE repayment plan and the benefits of investing in a highly profitable dental practice. He emphasizes the importance of financial freedom, flexibility, and building a thriving practice to overcome financial challenges. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration to transform your financial future.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Are you hesitant to step into your role as a leader - especially after acquiring a practice? In this episode, Derek shares a coaching story that will resonate with any new owner who feels unsure about holding meetings, sharing their vision, or setting expectations.

You’ll hear how one doctor overcame her fear, led her first team meeting, and was surprised by the team’s enthusiastic response. Derek breaks down why your team actually wants you to lead, the most common mindset blocks holding doctors back, and the key ingredients every team is craving: clarity, vision, accountability, and recognition.

Plus, practical takeaways to help you start small, lead intentionally, and elevate the energy of your entire practice—without needing to be perfect.

Leadership isn’t optional. Your team is already following someone—make sure it’s you.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this flashback episode, Derek and Matt put their heads together and share their experiences with benefits and drawbacks of purchasing vs starting a practice. If you're considering ownership, this episode is a must! Also some fun conversation about exit strategy!

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

What benefits should you offer your employees? Should you be doing more or less? How do you say no? Steve talks about how to make decisions on employee benefits. Get this right to create and retain a great team.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Join Derek in this frequently passed over lesson from 5 years ago. Take time to reconsider your weekly schedule in your practice.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this powerful and personal episode, Derek welcomes Matt back to the Lifestyle Practice Podcast for a deep dive into his surreal week competing in the U.S. Open at Oakmont—his hometown course where he once caddied. Matt opens up about the emotional whirlwind of walking onto the grounds as a player, hitting the first tee shot of the championship, and rubbing shoulders with legends like Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau.

But this episode is more than just golf. Matt shares the real behind-the-scenes of managing nerves, handling media attention, staying composed under pressure, and staying true to who he is amidst the noise. He reflects on how this once-in-a-lifetime experience shaped his mindset, impacted his dental practice, and reinforced the importance of personal growth, self-image, and stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Whether you're a golfer, dentist, entrepreneur, or just someone chasing a dream, this episode is a masterclass in performance, humility, and living life with intention. Tune in for heartfelt stories, real lessons, and inspiration that lasts far beyond 18 holes.

This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Staff is the #1 source of stress for most dentists. Steve shares pearls you can use right away to save yourself headaches and improve your team's performance.

This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this episode, Derek shares game-changing leadership insights from Bill Walsh’s legendary book, The Score Takes Care of Itself.

Drawing from the iconic 49ers dynasty era, Derek explores how Walsh’s management philosophy—focusing on process over outcomes—applies directly to growing and leading a successful dental practice. You’ll hear how excellence in every role, no matter how behind-the-scenes, contributes to winning results, and why communication becomes your greatest challenge—and greatest asset—as your organization scales.

This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence.

Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com