The Business Side of Dentistry with Rachel Karfeld of the Dawson Academy

Summary In this episode of the GLOW Podcast, Taylor Logue speaks with Rachel Karfeld, Director of Business Development at the Dawson Academy. Rachel brings deep experience in dental practice management consulting to a candid conversation about the business realities dentists face that dental school simply never prepares them for. They explore the Dawson Academy’s Complete Care Consulting Program — described as a “mini MBA for dentists” — and discuss how the program is evolving to address the most pressing challenges in practice management: team communication, scheduling, data analytics, and leadership development. Rachel also shares her philosophy on consulting as an ongoing partnership rather than a one-time fix, and offers a look at where the Dawson Academy is headed as it expands its consulting services and client base. Takeaways -The Dawson Academy is known for advanced clinical dental education and is now building out a robust business education arm. -Rachel Karfeld brings years of dental practice management consulting experience to her role as Director of Business Development. -Dentists receive little to no business training in dental school — yet running a practice is fundamentally a business challenge. -The Complete Care Consulting Program is designed to give dentists practical tools for managing and growing their practices. -Team communication and scheduling inefficiencies are among the most common pain points in dental practices. -Data analytics are essential to understanding practice performance and making informed decisions. -Effective consulting is an ongoing relationship, not a one-time engagement — lasting change takes time and commitment. -Leadership and management training are just as important as clinical skill for dental practice owners. -An abundance mindset versus a scarcity mindset plays a significant role in how dentists approach business decisions. -The Dawson Academy is focused on expanding its consulting reach and continuing to evolve its program offerings. Notable Quotes “It’s like a little mini MBA.” “I enjoy it.” “We’re on a good path right now.” Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Dawson Academy and Rachel Karfeld 02:30 Building a New Business Education Leg for the Dawson Academy 06:08 Why Dentists Need Business Education — and What’s Missing 09:55 The Complete Care Consulting Program: Approach and Client Engagement 12:10 Leadership and Management Training for Dental Practice Owners 15:24 Team Communication, Scheduling, and Dynamics in Dental Practices 18:48 Future Goals: Expanding Consulting Services and Growing the Client Base Connect with The Dawson Academy: Connect with The Dawson Academy Website: https://thedawsonacademy.com/ Connect with The Dawson Academy Instagram:   / dawsonacademy