Insurance Untangled

Why do some dental practices grow into successful multi-location groups while others struggle to scale beyond a second office? In this episode of the Insurance Untangled Podcast, host Don Adeesha sits down with Courtney Staiger, CFE, to explore one of the most overlooked threats facing dental practices today: fraud, embezzlement, and financial vulnerabilities hiding in plain sight. Drawing from her experience investigating fraud and helping businesses strengthen internal controls, Courtney shares the warning signs practice owners often miss, why trust alone is never a financial strategy, and the systems every practice should have in place to protect revenue and reduce risk. The conversation dives into common embezzlement schemes, the importance of segregation of duties, how to identify red flags before they become costly problems, and practical steps dental leaders can take to create a culture of accountability without damaging team trust. Whether you're a solo practice owner, managing multiple locations, or preparing for future growth, this episode offers valuable insights into protecting the business you've worked so hard to build. Topics discussed include: • Common fraud and embezzlement schemes in dental practices • Warning signs owners and managers often overlook • Why internal controls matter, even in close-knit teams • Creating accountability without creating distrust • Financial safeguards every growing practice should implement • The role of leadership in reducing organizational risk • Practical steps to protect revenue and strengthen operations Connect with Courtney Staiger: LinkedIn: Courtney Staiger, CFE Insurance Untangled is dedicated to helping dental practice owners navigate growth, operations, leadership, marketing, and profitability through conversations with industry experts and successful practice leaders.

In this episode of Insurance Untangled, hosts Ben Tuinei and Tessina Bullock dive into one of the most overlooked revenue opportunities for dental practices: PPO fee negotiations. Many practices assume insurance reimbursements are fixed, but Ben and Tessina explain why that is not always the case. They discuss why practices often avoid negotiations, how to prepare before approaching insurance companies, and what data matters most when evaluating PPO relationships. You'll learn why knowing your office fees, tracking write-offs, understanding plan profitability, and building leverage are essential steps toward improving reimbursements. Even small fee increases can create a major financial impact over time, especially for practices that remain in-network. This episode is a practical, straight-to-the-point conversation for dental teams looking to take more control of their insurance relationships and stop leaving revenue on the table. Topics covered include: Why many dental practices delay or avoid PPO negotiations Whether insurance companies really negotiate fees How to prepare your data before starting the negotiation process The importance of tracking write-offs and plan profitability Why small reimbursement increases can make a big difference Key takeaways for practices ready to start negotiating For more resources, visit Insuranceuntangled.com

In this episode of Insurance Untangled, hosts Ben Tuinei and Tessina Bullock talk about why more dentists are walking away from insurance networks. They share the top reasons behind this shift — like unfair SRP denials, confusing contract limits, and low reimbursement rates that make it hard for doctors to give the care patients deserve. Ben and Tessina also explain how insurance companies' policies often go against what's best for patients and practices. They show why going out of network can give dentists more freedom, better income, and peace of mind while helping patients get the treatment they truly need.

Are you stuck getting only 2 to 5 new patients a month? In this episode, Ben talks with marketing expert Naren about why some dental practices struggle to grow—while others are booked solid. They explore real reasons growth stalls, like poor online visibility, weak reviews, and low phone conversion. You'll also hear simple strategies that can help you attract more of the right patients. If you're ready to break through that plateau and finally see steady growth, this episode gives you the mindset and tools to make it happen.

Why do so many dental practices work harder year after year, yet still feel like they're falling behind? In this eye-opening episode, Ben Tuinei sits down with marketing expert Naren Arulrajah to redefine what real growth means for dental practices. It's not just about attracting more patients, it's about attracting the right ones. Naren explains why depending on PPOs and price-driven advertising can actually shrink your profitability, and how practices can shift toward high-value, treatment-accepting patients who truly value dentistry. From SEO strategies that actually work to building trust with powerful patient stories and reviews, this episode breaks down a practical, modern approach to long-term practice growth.

In this episode of Insurance Untangled, Ben Tuinei and Tessina Bullock break down the current state of PPO fee negotiations in 2025. They explain why it's more important than ever to build your insurance profile, understand your leverage, and pay attention to hidden issues like code downgrades and umbrella networks. You'll learn simple, step-by-step tips to start negotiating smarter—whether you go it alone or work with a pro. Plus, discover how the right marketing strategy can help you attract better patients and reduce your insurance dependence for good.

In Episode 116 of Insurance Untangled, Ben Tuinei and Naren Arulrajah explore how the 80/20 rule can transform your dental practice. Learn why just 20% of your efforts lead to 80% of your results—and how to stop wasting time and money on marketing that doesn't work. Naren shares a simple framework to help patients find you, like you, and trust you, using real examples and clear, no-fluff advice. You'll also hear mindset lessons from sports greats like Phil Jackson and Michael Jordan, showing how focus and consistency create long-term success. Whether you're stuck in insurance traps or just tired of going in circles, this episode will help you take control and grow with purpose.

In this episode of Insurance Untangled, Ben Tuinei and Naren Arulrajah dive deep into the shifting landscape of digital search and what AI means for your dental practice. Learn how "zero-click" searches, Google's evolving algorithms, and AI tools are already influencing whether patients find and choose your practice—often without ever clicking your website. From Google EEAT to voice search trends, this episode unpacks what it takes to stand out online in 2025 and beyond.