Dr. Killeen shares the inspiring story of Bonnie Sumner, a woman in her 70s who set a world record in the dead hang after starting with just 21 seconds. Her progress did not come from massive leaps, but from small, consistent improvements and a simple question she kept asking herself: can I do a little…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a powerful story from World War II that highlights a common thinking error called survivorship bias. By studying only the planes that returned from combat, analysts nearly reinforced the wrong parts of the aircraft until statistician Abraham Wald pointed out they were missing the most important data. This same…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen reminds us that real success in dentistry is rarely found in flashy ideas or new technology. It is built on consistently executing the fundamentals that everyone already knows but often overlooks. From strong hygiene visits and clear patient communication to solid clinical habits and simple leadership practices, the basics are…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares the famous story of Archimedes and his “Eureka” moment to highlight how breakthroughs often come when we least expect them. After struggling to solve a difficult problem for the king of Syracuse, Archimedes discovered the answer not at his desk, but while stepping into a bath. The moment of…
In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a lesson he has seen after coaching hundreds of dentists through the Dental Success Institute. Often, the biggest barrier to success is not competition, the economy, or outside forces. It is the quiet ways we hold ourselves back through self doubt, hesitation, and self defeating habits. He shares…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a simple story about fixing a small telescope with his boys and how it sparked a powerful reflection about clarity in life. Just like a telescope needs its mirrors aligned to bring distant stars into focus, our thinking also needs moments of reflection to see what truly matters. Journaling…
In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen uses a simple idea from 3D printing to highlight an important lesson for dentistry and leadership. In 3D printing, every layer needs support underneath it. If something tries to extend without a foundation, the structure fails. The same principle applies to building a successful practice. Mission, vision, and core values…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the changing seasons across the country and how that simple shift is a reminder that life and dentistry move in seasons too. Some seasons are full of energy and growth in the practice, while others are centered on family, health, or simply getting through a demanding stretch of…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen pauses to reflect on the fact that we are already a quarter of the way through the year. It is the perfect moment to revisit the goals we set back in January and ask whether we are still aligned with what we truly want. He walks through a simple framework…
In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a candid reflection about the different kinds of motivation that drive success. He talks about “dirty fuel” and “clean fuel.” Dirty fuel comes from trying to prove people wrong or chasing external validation. It can create incredible momentum and push you through difficult seasons, but it often burns hot…