MEET OUR ADVISORY BOARD
Advised by the Dental Industry's Most Respected Thinkers
Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, DMD, MBA
CEO & Founder, Get Ahead Coaching & Consulting | Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board Member
When a Crisis Became a Calling
After three back surgeries ended her 25-year clinical career, Dr. Gerilyn Alfe faced a defining choice: fade away, or redefine her impact on dentistry. She chose transformation—both for herself and for the dentists she now leads toward independence, profitability, and fulfillment.
Practice Success and Industry Proof
Dr. Alfe built and operated two highly successful practices, culminating in Chicago Smile Spa, a boutique cosmetic practice she launched in 2005. Her documented results set a benchmark few achieve:
• 100% insurance independence for 21 years
• 90% patient conversion rates across digital platforms
• 50% year-over-year new patient growth through strategic marketing
• A premium fee-for-service model with loyal patients and empowered teams
Chicago Smile Spa became proof that dentists can thrive outside insurance networks while maintaining both profitability and exceptional patient care.
Academic Excellence & Business Leadership
Graduating magna cum laude from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (fifth in her class), Dr. Alfe was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honor Society and awarded the AAWD Certificate of Recognition and the Jack Frommer Prize in Morphological Sciences.
After selling her practice, she completed her Executive MBA with Honors at the Jack Welch Management Institute, where she was named a Distinguished Welch Scholar. This dual foundation of clinical expertise and advanced business leadership uniquely positions her to bridge chairside dentistry with executive-level strategy.
Mentor, Educator, and Coach
For more than two decades, Dr. Alfe has shaped the profession as:
• Clinical Instructor, Tufts University School of Dental Medicine
• Faculty member, PAC-Live, The Hornbrook Group, and Clinical Mastery
• Mentor, Six Month Smiles
She has taught and mentored thousands of dentists, focusing on:
• Patient communication and case acceptance
• Team culture and leadership development
• Profitability frameworks and operational systems
As CEO of Get Ahead Coaching & Consulting, she now helps practice owners transition from clinicians to confident CEOs. Her advisory programs consistently deliver double-digit growth alongside measurable improvements in patient experience and team performance.
Alignment with the Foundation Dental Alliance
Dr. Alfe’s philosophy is inseparable from the mission of the Foundation Dental Alliance:
• Practice autonomy over corporate control
• Insurance independence as the path to profitability and quality care
• Leadership and empowered teams as the engine of sustainable growth
Her role on the Advisory Board ensures FDA remains the destination for dentists who demand more—from themselves, their practices, and their careers.
Core Expertise
• Fee-for-Service Practice Development & Insurance Independence
• Executive Coaching & Leadership Training
• Practice Growth, Startup & Transitions
• Financial Analysis, Profitability & KPI Optimization
• Patient Communication & Case Acceptance Strategies
• Team Recruitment, Training & Culture Development
• Marketing Strategy, Technology & Patient Experience Design
Continuing the Mission
Dr. Gerilyn Alfe represents the evolution from successful practitioner to strategic advisor. Her journey from forced retirement to executive coaching proves that setbacks can spark reinvention. On the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board, she brings unmatched credibility as a dentist who achieved independence, profitability, and lasting influence—and now equips others to do the same.
William S. Barrett
Chief Executive Officer, Mandelbaum Barrett PC | Corporate Law Partner | Dental Industry Legal Strategist
Proven Legal Leadership & Strategic Impact
William Barrett is a nationally respected corporate attorney and strategic advisor, known for guiding healthcare organizations, business leaders, and dental entrepreneurs through complex legal transitions with clarity and creativity. As CEO and Corporate Law Partner at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, Bill has spent over two decades helping clients navigate mergers, acquisitions, and practice transitions with unmatched precision.
He is regarded across the dental industry for his ability to structure high-stakes deals while preserving both business goals and professional integrity. Bill’s client-centered, solution-oriented mindset has earned him the reputation of a “deal maker” who gets things done — and done right.
Healthcare Focus & National Transactional Expertise
In the healthcare space, Bill is one of the country’s most trusted legal voices in dental and medical practice transitions.
His advisory work spans:
• Practice sales and purchases
• Associate buy-ins and start-ups
• DSO and MSO structuring
• Dental-specific employment law and compensation
• Succession planning and tax strategy
Throughout his career, he has successfully managed hundreds of practice transitions and business transactions across nearly every U.S. market. His clients include emerging DSOs, private equity firms, and independent healthcare entrepreneurs looking to scale responsibly.
Author, Speaker & Industry Thought Leader
Bill is the author of two best-selling dental business books:
• Pain-Free Dental Deals: An Entrepreneurial Dentist’s Guide to Buying, Selling, and Merging Practices
• The DSO Decision: Winning Answers from Every Angle
He frequently writes for top industry publications and delivers keynotes at national conferences, trade shows, and dental schools. His insights into DSO dynamics, exit strategies, and legal innovation are sought after by both emerging clinicians and established leaders.
As host of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, Bill interviews business and legal leaders to uncover the key moments that shaped their journeys. He’s also been featured on Dentaltown with Dr. Howard Farran and the Becker’s DSO Review Podcast.
Strategic Value to Foundation Dental Alliance
Bill’s role on the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board ensures FDA dentists are protected and positioned for success in every legal, structural, and financial decision they make. He brings a blend of legal rigor, entrepreneurial understanding, and industry foresight.
He actively supports FDA members in:
• Structuring win-win transitions and partnerships
• Avoiding costly legal pitfalls in practice growth
• Navigating DSO partnerships, acquisitions, and private equity offers
• Educating the FDA community through legal updates and training
His presence reinforces the FDA’s mission of protecting dentist autonomy and amplifying long-term success through trusted partnerships and strategic clarity.
Key Areas of Expertise
• Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
• Dental Practice Transitions and Sales
• Employment Law & Executive Compensation
• DSO & MSO Structuring
• Succession Planning & Tax Strategy
• Corporate Governance and Outside Counsel Services
Selected Publications
• Crafting the Perfect Exit Strategy for New York Dentists – NY County Dental Society, Mar 2025
• Integrating Artificial Intelligence in Dental Healthcare – NYCDS, Sep 2024
• The Ripple Effects in Dentistry of the FTC Noncompete Ban – NYCDS, Jun 2024
• Navigating Transactions with DSOs in the Current Market – NYCDS, Dec 2024
• The Vital Role of Partnership Agreements in Dentistry – NYCDS, Sep 2023
• The Pros and Cons of Selling or Partnering with a DSO – Dental Entrepreneur, Dec 2022
• Cybersecurity for Dental Practices – NYCDS, Jun 2023
• What to Know About the DOJ’s M&A Safe Harbor Policy – Legal Dive, May 2024
Professional Affiliations
• New Jersey State Bar
• New York State Bar
• American Bar Association
• New York County Dental Society
• Fortune Management, Board of Directors
• TruBlu Dental Management, Board of Directors
Awards
• Best Lawyers in America, 2023 & 2024
(No aspect of this advertisement has been approved by the Supreme Court of New Jersey or the American Bar Association.)
Education
• University of Virginia School of Law – J.D.
• Boston College – B.A.
Kim Diamond
President & General Manager, Dentalhitec Americas, Strategic Dental Leader, Digital Workflow Expert, Practice Growth Advisor
Kim Diamond is a bold, future-focused executive with more than two decades of experience driving innovation, performance, and transformation across the dental industry. As President and General Manager of Dentalhitec Americas, she leads the North American expansion of one of the world’s most advanced digital anesthesia and injection systems—reshaping the patient experience and empowering clinicians with precision-driven tools for modern care.
Kim is widely known as a challenger of the status quo, bringing a unique blend of clinical insight, operational strategy, and sales leadership to every venture she takes on. Prior to joining Dentalhitec, she served as Chief Customer Officer at KleerMembersy and Executive Vice President of Customer Success, where she helped redefine the membership model for patient loyalty, access, and care continuity. At Henry Schein, she held multiple Vice President roles over a 7-year span—leading sales, customer delivery, and strategic accounts across national and multi-site organizations.
Throughout her career, Kim has built a reputation for helping practices and organizations unlock untapped growth through customer-centric innovation, digital workflow transformation, and emotionally intelligent leadership. Her background spans sales operations, contract management, change management, procurement strategy, and executive training. She is LAMP and Challenger trained, with deep subject matter expertise in clinical digital workflows and large account management.
Kim is also the founder of Diamond Capital, a strategic advisory firm supporting dental and health-related companies with growth planning, market entry, and high-stakes execution. Her ability to identify trends early, align teams around bold goals, and execute with focus has made her a trusted leader and mentor throughout the industry.
As a member of the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board, Kim brings exceptional strategic perspective, deep industry influence, and an unshakable commitment to moving dentistry forward.
Greg Essenmacher
CEO & Founder, GnA Consult | Full Arch Growth Strategist | Host, The Tooth Sleuth Podcast
Proven Leadership & Strategic Impact
Greg Essenmacher is a nationally recognized consultant, speaker, and advisor who helps full arch-focused dental organizations unlock clarity, scale with integrity, and lead with purpose. As Founder and CEO of GnA Consult since 2015, Greg partners with practice owners, emerging groups, and DSOs to increase conversion and operational efficiency while preserving culture and care.
His results-driven approach has produced documented growth across the industry. Greg’s most notable transformation involved guiding a six-location practice from delivering one full arch case every six weeks to twenty cases per month in under three years - an achievement grounded in sustainable systems, not temporary fixes.
Strategic Frameworks & National Adoption
Greg’s expertise extends beyond traditional consulting through proprietary frameworks that have gained widespread adoption. His Full Arch Patient Journey framework is currently implemented in practices across 30+ states and 3 countries - demonstrating both scalability and clinical alignment.
Greg’s signature philosophy - “scripts don’t work, but formulas do” - focuses on personalized communication strategies that build trust and increase case acceptance through emotional alignment. His coaching systems include role-specific protocols for Treatment Coordinators, Lead Call teams, Dental Assistants, and Executive Leadership, along with KPI dashboards and custom P&L tools that drive confident decision-making and long-term momentum.
Media Platform & Thought Leadership
As host of The Tooth Sleuth Podcast since 2021, Greg facilitates transparent, growth-focused conversations with dental industry leaders. His interview style blends strategy, humor, and real-world insight - covering themes like vulnerability, alignment, and authentic leadership as foundations of high-trust practice culture.
Greg has co-authored industry resources including “Marketing Your Full-Arch Therapy Practice” and regularly collaborates with major dental brands and organizations to share strategies for increasing profitability without compromising care.
Comprehensive Industry Experience
Greg’s multidimensional insight stems from over a decade of leadership across sales, consulting, and business development:
• GnA Consult (2015–Present): Full arch practice growth, P&L strategy, team alignment, and leadership systems.
• 3D|Diagnostix (2022–Present): Vice President of Business Development - focused on surgical guides, implant planning, and CT segmentation technology.
• Straumann Group (2013–2021): Area Sales Director to Sales Director - developing deep expertise in implants and full arch conversion systems.
Strategic Value to Foundation Dental Alliance
Greg’s appointment to the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board brings critical expertise in scalable full arch growth, emotionally intelligent communication systems, and values-driven leadership. His frameworks are field-tested, metrics-based, and directly aligned with FDA’s mission to help dentists protect autonomy while maximizing clinical, operational, and financial performance.
As a strategic advisor, Greg contributes to FDA in three key areas:
• Scaling member practices’ Full Arch services with performance coaching and leadership alignment
• Building communication systems that foster confident case presentation in high-trust environments
• Supporting the refinement of FDA content, training, and transition strategy with real-world growth data
His presence strengthens the Foundation’s commitment to integrity, clarity, and transformation through systems that last.
Key Areas of Expertise
• Full arch and implant-focused growth systems for private and group practices
• Team development, role clarity, and multi-site executive coaching
• Case acceptance and patient journey optimization through emotional alignment
• KPI dashboards, profitability strategy, and data-backed decision frameworks
• Marketing strategy, lead conversion, and values-aligned practice scaling
Contact: Greg Essenmacher | Mesa, AZ
Admin@DentalConsult4u.com
Robert Hayman
CEO, Perimetrics, Inc | Entrepreneur | Visionary CEO | Global Brand Architect | Dental Industry Pioneer
Robert G. Hayman is a highly accomplished CEO, brand builder, and dental industry innovator with over 20 years of leadership across global, vertically integrated, and highly regulated sectors. As the current Chairman and CEO of Perimetrics, Inc. - a groundbreaking dental diagnostics company pioneering AI-based technologies - Robert brings a proven legacy of disruptive innovation and transformative growth.
Best known for founding and scaling Discus Dental, Robert turned a modest $40,000 investment into a $170 million global enterprise. Under his leadership, Discus became the #1 direct-to-dentist professional dental brand with distribution in 17 countries, achieving sustained double-digit revenue growth for over a decade. His ability to identify market gaps and deliver visionary solutions continues to shape the future of dental care and diagnostics.
As Chairman and CEO of Perimetrics, Robert now leads the development of InnerView®, a revolutionary AI-powered diagnostic technology that enables early detection of implant instability and compromised osseointegration. Using Quantitative Percussion Diagnostics (QPD™), InnerView® provides clinicians with a non-invasive, predictive tool that helps prevent implant failure, assess natural tooth and restoration integrity, and improve long-term outcomes. With this breakthrough, Robert is once again setting a new clinical standard - this time by helping dentistry move from reactive to predictive diagnostics.
Robert’s expertise spans:
• Global market expansion and brand development
• Disruptive product innovation and go-to-market execution
• Executive recruitment and leadership development
• IPO readiness, SOX compliance, and investor relations
• Strategic partnerships with investment banks and private equity
• Cultural transformation and organizational excellence
He has held executive roles in luxury retail (Giorgio Beverly Hills), commercial real estate, and entrepreneurial apparel ventures, including the globally recognized fashion brand Red Square Wear, capitalizing on geopolitical moments to launch bold, trend-defining lines.
In addition to his corporate leadership, Robert has served on numerous boards - including Evolus, Alphaeon, and Loan Gifting - with roles such as Chair of Compensation and Audit Committees. He is a guest lecturer in Entrepreneurial Studies at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management and an active force in charitable efforts focused on children’s health and education.
A passionate philanthropist and global thinker, Robert has served on the boards of:
• Smiles for Life Foundation
• National Children’s Oral Health Foundation
• Children’s Dental Center
• House Ear Institute
• Advocates for Malibu Public Schools
• Beverly Hills and Malibu Chambers of Commerce
Robert holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Boston University and has pursued advanced studies at Sorbonne University and Pepperdine University.
When he’s not pioneering the next dental breakthrough, Robert enjoys travel, wine, fine arts, and competitive sports - from skiing and scuba diving to trail running and tennis.
Ian Miller
Fractional Chief Revenue Officer | Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board Member
The Dental Industry’s Go-to-Market Catalyst
Transforming Breakthrough Technologies into Market Dominating Brands
Innovation is abundant in dentistry. Commercial success is not. Most brilliant ideas stall—not for lack of science—but because they lack the commercial structure, leadership, and strategy to scale.
Ian Miller operates precisely where innovation meets execution. As the profession’s leading Fractional Chief Revenue Officer (CRO) and a valued Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board Member, he builds the revenue systems, partnerships, and market frameworks that turn promising technologies into profitable, enduring companies.
For nearly 30 years, Ian has led, launched, and scaled ventures across dental, medical, and health innovation. He brings C-suite expertise to emerging companies at a fraction of traditional executive cost—helping founders transform innovation into measurable impact through disciplined execution, strategic clarity, and results that compound.
A New Model for Growth — The Fractional CRO
A Fractional CRO acts as a company’s Chief Revenue Officer—but part-time and by design.
This model gives multiple high-potential companies access to elite strategic leadership without the overhead of a full-time hire. Ian pioneered the concept within the dental and health-tech sectors, guiding startups, global entrants, and established businesses seeking sustainable scale.
His approach blends hands-on implementation with executive-level strategy, closing the gap between vision and revenue.
Key Advantages
• C-suite leadership without C-suite cost
• Immediate access to three decades of industry relationships
• Cross-company insight that reveals hidden growth patterns
• Execution-driven strategy over theory
• Scalable engagement that evolves with the business
The Commercialization Blueprint™
Ian’s proven framework for revenue acceleration integrates four pillars that move a product from concept to category leadership.
Strategic Pillar
Market Entry Positioning
Revenue Architecture
Distribution Partnerships
Strategic Alliances Ecosystem Building
Focus & Execution
Define ideal customers, refine brand story, and engineer launch strategies that drive adoption
Revenue Architecture
Design and install scalable sales systems, CRM processes, pricing models, and performance management
Forge alliances with DSOs, GPOs, and KOLs to achieve multi-channel penetration
Create mutually beneficial partnerships that accelerate scale and build market defensibility
Result
From unknown startup to recognized category leader
From sporadic sales to predictable growth
From isolated vendor to ecosystem integrator
From opportunistic growth to sustained market dominance
Leadership in Action
Ian currently serves as CRO and strategic architect for several of dentistry’s most innovative companies—each redefining its category through disciplined commercialization.
XSport Mouthguards | Chief Revenue Officer
World’s only patented 3D, triple-layer, carbon-fiber mouthguard.
He partnered with hundreds of dental practices nationwide, creating new revenue streams while protecting athletes and elevating practice profitability.
Under his leadership, XSport became a nationally recognized sports-safety brand within one year.
Paperplane Therapeutics | Chief Revenue Officer (Dental)
Pioneering virtual-reality therapy to reduce pain and anxiety in dental care.
Ian secured a $1.5 million funding round, brokered distribution agreements with Benco Dental and Allure Orthodontics, and led expansion throughout North America.
His leadership earned the title CRO of the Year (Canada – Medical Devices, 2024).
AllNat Innovations (ChewMate) | Chief Revenue Officer
Developer of oral health solutions for humans and pets.
Ian guided the commercial launch of ChewMate across Canada and the U.S., building veterinary and retail distribution networks that positioned the brand as a leader in pet oral care within its first year.
Dental Mutuality | Chief Executive Officer
Championing innovative benefit models and professional partnerships that increase profitability and autonomy for dentists.
Earlier Leadership
• Steraligner – Chief Revenue Officer (2017–2024)
• PLAQUE HD / TJA Health Canada – COO & Global Sales Director (2016–2024) Launched Canada’s first professional plaque-identifying toothpaste and built a nationwide distribution network.
• The Autoflosser – CRO (2023)
• J.I.W. Dotcom Inc. – CEO (1997–Present) – nearly three decades of continuous innovation and international sales leadership.
The Ian Miller Method™
1. Network Activation — Leverage three decades of industry relationships to connect products directly to buyers and distributors.
2. Revenue Engineering — Create predictable, data-driven systems that deliver compounding growth.
3. Multi-Company Intelligence — Apply real-time insights from multiple ventures to anticipate market trends and opportunities.
4. Execution Over Theory — Implement and optimize until systems run independently and profitably.
Impact and Results
• Double-digit revenue growth within the first year of engagement for multiple clients
• National and international distribution expansion
• Funding rounds secured and valuations increased
• Strategic alliances with major DSOs and dental suppliers
• Transformation of emerging brands into market leaders
His commercialization blueprint consistently turns isolated startups into thriving, scalable enterprises.
Advisory Board Role — Foundation Dental Alliance
Within the Foundation Dental Alliance, Ian serves as a strategic advisor on innovation and commercialization. He helps the Alliance evaluate technologies, mentor founders, and build the strategic alliances that advance dentistry’s future.
Key Contributions
• Assessment of commercial viability for emerging technologies
• Guidance for entrepreneurs developing products or education platforms
• Real-time market intelligence for the Foundation ecosystem
• Expansion of high-integrity partnerships that support sustainable growth
Credentials and Recognition
• Ph.D. in Business and Commercial Strategy (Canada)
• CRO of the Year — Canada / Medical Devices (2024) for Paperplane Therapeutics
• Guinness World Record Holder for achievement in discipline and creativity
• 30 years of international market experience across North America, Europe, and Asia
• Featured guest on The Dental Business Hub, Off Your Flosser, and Nifty Thrifty Dentists
• Strategic Advisor, The Dental Exit Institute—helping practice owners maximize value and plan successful transitions
Why Foundation Dental Alliance Selected Ian Miller
Ian embodies the values at the heart of the Foundation Dental Alliance:
Integrity in Execution | Innovation with Purpose | Strategy for Sustainable Growth.
He bridges innovation and business excellence, helping dentists, educators, and entrepreneurs thrive in an era of constant change.
His presence on the Advisory Board ensures the Alliance remains connected to the cutting edge of commercial innovation while anchored in ethical, patient-centered principles.
In His Own Words
“Whether it’s sales, marketing, finance, or logistics — I help companies get the salespeople, the distributors, and the market share they dream of. If you have a great product and need help getting it to the world, let’s talk.”
— Ian Miller
This isn’t consulting — it’s partnership. Ian measures his success by the lasting growth of the companies he helps build.
Directory Summary
Ian Miller, Ph.D. — The Dental Industry’s Go-to-Market Catalyst
Fractional Chief Revenue Officer and Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board Member.
Ian builds the sales systems and distribution networks that transform innovative dental technologies into market-leading brands.
With three decades of executive leadership and award-winning success in scaling companies like XSport Mouthguards and Paperplane Therapeutics, he represents the bridge between innovation and execution.
Brett Jackson
Area Sales Director, TRI Dental Implants | Founder, Chi Rho Consulting LLC | Co-Founder, Dental Recovery Solutions | Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board Member
When Others Follow Formulas, He Creates Markets
Most sales professionals climb predictable ladders: entry-level to management to retirement. Brett Jackson built something entirely different—a career that defies categories and redefines what it means to be a leader in dental business transformation.
From tutoring college students in communication skills to becoming the #1 dental implant sales representative in North America, Brett’s path reveals a pattern that sets him apart: he doesn’t just excel in existing systems, he reimagines them entirely.
The Cross-Industry Strategist
Brett’s professional evolution spans industries that rarely intersect, yet each experience became a building block for his unique approach to dental business coaching. His journey through fitness sales, clean energy consulting, corporate technology, and dental implantology created a perspective that no traditional dental consultant can match.
At Tesla, he educated homeowners on systemic transformation, saving clients thousands while advancing clean energy adoption. At Xerox, he earned President’s Club honors (148% of plan) by identifying operational inefficiencies others overlooked. These experiences shaped an ability to see patterns others miss—insights that now redefine how dental practices approach growth, efficiency, and patient relationships.
Digital Implant Innovation Leadership
As Area Sales Director for TRI Dental Implants—the world’s leading digital implant company—Brett represents the cutting edge of dental technology. TRI’s revolutionary matrix® system eliminates traditional abutments entirely, creating the first implant platform approved for full digital restorations. His role connects Swiss engineering precision with U.S. market expansion.
His track record with Straumann Group/Neodent speaks for itself:
• $3 Million Club (2022)
• Rep of the Year & Circle of Excellence (215% to plan, 2021)
• #1 North American Representative (2021)
• Champion Field Sales Trainer—educating the educators
• Consistent quota achievement from 2020–2023
The Entrepreneurial Pivot
Rather than remaining in corporate comfort, Brett launched two ventures in 2024:
• Chi Rho Consulting LLC: A boutique firm focused on the top 1% of performers, combining EBITDA optimization, leadership coaching, and experience design.
• Dental Recovery Solutions: An innovative approach to post-surgical patient care, converting an often-overlooked step in dentistry into both a patient satisfaction boost and a new revenue stream.
These ventures showcase Brett’s instinct for spotting gaps others ignore—and transforming them into high-value opportunities.
The Teaching DNA
Brett’s foundation as an educator began at Mt. San Antonio College, where he tutored students in English and speech. That early work developed his ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies—a skill that later defined his success as a Champion Field Sales Trainer and now drives his coaching style.
His philosophy of leadership: don’t impose systems—develop leaders who can think strategically and execute with independence.
Alignment With Foundation Dental Alliance
As a member of the FDA Advisory Board, Brett contributes a rare combination of:
• Innovation Integration – guiding adoption of digital implant systems and emerging technologies
• Performance Optimization – delivering proven methods for EBITDA growth and operational efficiency
• Leadership Development – elevating high performers into exceptional leaders
• Market Expansion – applying cross-industry insights to create competitive advantage
This alignment reinforces FDA’s mission: empowering dentists to achieve independence, scale profitably, and transform their practices through innovation, strategy, and authentic leadership.
The Transformation Multiplier
Brett Jackson is not just another dental industry voice—he is a strategist who anticipates opportunities before they are visible to others. His unique blend of technological fluency, performance psychology, and entrepreneurial execution creates compound transformations that grow stronger over time.
Through his role on the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board, Brett ensures that FDA members gain access to strategies that don’t merely keep pace with industry trends—they set the pace for the future.
Karan Nijhawan
Founder, The Retreats Guy | Retreat Revenue Strategist | Transformational Business Architect
Karan Nijhawan, with over a decade of experience, transforms how entrepreneurs think about client acquisition. Instead of chasing prospects, his clients design premium retreat experiences that attract dream clients, generate instant referrals, and produce $20,000 to $200,000+ in new revenue—often from a single 2-day event.
As founder of The Retreats Guy, Karan has cracked the code on retreat monetization for coaches, consultants, and service-based entrepreneurs. His proven framework goes far beyond traditional workshops—he architects identity-level transformations that clients never stop talking about… and never stop sharing.
The Retreats Guy Method fuses business strategy with emotional intelligence. Participants don’t just learn systems—they experience breakthrough moments that shift how they see themselves and their potential. That shift creates the kind of loyalty and word-of-mouth traditional marketing can’t buy.
Karan’s expertise spans retreat design, premium offer creation, and transformational facilitation. His clients consistently report not just higher revenue, but renewed purpose, deeper alignment, and the clarity to lead with confidence and charge what they’re truly worth.
For entrepreneurs ready to stop competing on price and start commanding premium positioning, Karan delivers the roadmap—from scattered service provider to sought-after authority.
Core Expertise
• Premium retreat monetization ($20K–$200K+ events)
• Transformational experience design
• High-ticket back-end offer creation
• Identity-level leadership facilitation
• Premium client magnetism systems
Foundation Dental Alliance Connection
Karan’s retreat mastery directly supports FDA’s luxury retreat model. His insights elevate how dentists create deeper connections, deliver unforgettable experiences, and expand their influence beyond clinical care.
Matthew Petchel
CEO, Brand Target | Story Architect | Marketing Visionary | Brand Strategist
Matthew Petchel brings more than 30 years of experience in branding, marketing, and advertising - empowering companies to tell unforgettable stories that connect, convert, and endure. With deep expertise across healthcare, dental equipment, and financial services, Matthew possesses a rare talent for seeing the big picture through the eyes of the consumer and then translating that vision into strategies that drive tangible results.
From launching groundbreaking products to breathing new life into aging brands, he specializes in making the complex feel clear, actionable, and profoundly compelling. A lifelong creative and strategic thinker, Matthew blends sharp business acumen with incisive creative insight - often becoming the essential "fixer" when clarity, momentum, or brand energy is needed most.
As a sought-after speaker, author, and respected industry connector, Matthew consistently builds powerful relationships, moves audiences, and drives meaningful outcomes. He’s not just a strategist - he’s a one-man brand engine who brings simplicity, structure, and soul to every project he touches, helping leaders define their most impactful market presence.
Travis Rodgers
Silicon Valley Technology Pioneer | Dental Innovation Architect | Venture Capital Strategist
Founder & Chairman, DrDDS Innovations | CEO, OneClick Referral | Managing Partner, Dental Venture Capital | Technology Editor, Dental Entrepreneur Magazine
Travis Rodgers represents the powerful intersection of Silicon Valley entrepreneurship and dental industry transformation. With over 22 years of systematic execution, startup leadership, and enterprise sales mastery, he embodies the Foundation Dental Alliance principle of proven results over theoretical promises.
Declared “The #1 Entrepreneur in the Dental Industry” by Dr. Howard Farran, Travis has earned his reputation through verified outcomes, market transformation, and the creation of solutions embedded in the infrastructure of modern dental practices.
Silicon Valley Origins & Entrepreneurial Foundation
Raised in the heart of the tech revolution, Travis founded Mustang Technology Inc. while playing Division I football at Cal Poly—building networks for students and local businesses. He exited the company in 1998, then applied the discipline of rapid iteration, scalable execution, and results-driven development to the dental industry.
This foundation shaped the work he’s done ever since—designing, launching, and optimizing technologies now used in over 15,000 practices.
Documented Impact Across the Dental Ecosystem
Technology Innovation
• Created the first electronic referral system in dentistry (2003)
• Launched over 250 dental products and built 27+ custom software platforms
• Architected core integrations for Dentrix, Eaglesoft, OpenDental, and Dentrix Enterprise
• Built systems that power the daily operations of 15,000+ practices
Startup & Venture Acceleration
• Founder, DrDDS Innovations — the industry’s premier dental venture studio
• Collaborated with over 500 dental startups from concept to market
• Raised $3M+ in startup funding in 2024 alone
• Developed the industry’s most comprehensive dental professional database for strategic growth
Enterprise Sales Leadership
• IBM: #1 representative in Q1 2014 with 411% of quota achieved
• Oracle: Closed $240M+ in enterprise revenue
• ADP/VirtualEdge: 264% quota attainment, multi-year Top Gun award recipient
• Saba Software: 167% of quota with global team leadership
Current Roles & Strategic Leadership
• Chairman, DrDDS Innovations
• CEO, OneClick Referral
• Managing Partner, Dental Venture Capital
• Technology Editor & Board Member, Dental Entrepreneur Magazine
• Former VP, Business Development, Revere Partners
Each of these roles reflects his expertise in tech-driven practice transformation, startup evaluation, and strategic acceleration.
Proven Frameworks & Signature Programs
The 3 C’s™ Implementation Model
• Communication: Aligning teams before technology rollout
• Coordination: Strategic, stepwise execution
• Conviction: Culture change through clear commitment
This system has been implemented in hundreds of practices to drive successful transformation.
90-Day Startup Sprint™
• 12 hours/month strategic advisory
• Investor-ready pitch deck and coaching
• 10,000+ dental contact lead generation
• Full tech-stack evaluation and rollout support
Stanford Discovery Integration
• Uses Stanford’s Customer Discovery methodology
• Combines DISC data from 5,000+ dentists
• Designed to improve product-market fit and reduce startup failure rates
Thought Leadership & Industry Recognition
• Host, Dental Innovation Show podcast
• National keynote speaker on technology, startup acceleration, and practice automation
• Hall of Fame Inductee for transformational contributions to dental technology
• Dental Entrepreneur Magazine Cover Feature (Summer 2025):
“Where Vision Meets Values: The Power of Character and Connection”
Personal Excellence & Unique Advantage
Beyond his professional track record, Travis is a former Division I athlete, Fortune 500 sales leader, and competitive ballroom dancer with his partner, Dr. Emily Splichal.
His approach to leadership blends technical execution with emotional intelligence — essential to building scalable change in modern dentistry.
He often shares:
“One concept, one person, or one piece of information can change someone’s life.”
This belief reflects Foundation principles of authentic transformation through clarity, discipline, and aligned action.
Advisory Board Contribution: Foundation Dental Alliance
Travis brings unique strategic value across:
• Technology Strategy & Systems Architecture
• Venture Capital Access & Startup Acceleration
• Practice Growth via Automation & Integration
• Market Intelligence & Strategic Partnership Development
• Scalable Frameworks for Change Management
Every initiative Travis supports is rooted in a singular truth: measurable results over abstract vision.
Results That Speak for Themselves
• 15,000+ practices using systems he built
• 250+ products launched
• $240M+ in enterprise revenue generated
• $3M+ raised in dental startup capital (2024)
• 500+ startups accelerated
• 33% reduction in patient leakage via OneClick Referral
Travis Rodgers proves that Silicon Valley innovation, when applied with Foundation-level discipline, creates enduring value for practices, patients, and the profession.
He is a builder, a strategist, and a trusted advisor to those seeking not just growth—but meaningful transformation.
John Stamper
Founder, John Stamper Media | Dental Industry Strategist | Host, Media Producer | U.S. Navy Veteran
Strategic Storytelling Meets Industry Execution
John Stamper is a nationally recognized media strategist, dental consultant, and content producer with over 25 years of leadership across healthcare, entrepreneurship, and digital branding.
As the founder of John Stamper Media, he helps businesses amplify their voice through video storytelling, social media, and event production. Since 2019, he has hosted and produced over 400 podcast episodes, led 75+ live/virtual event broadcasts, and delivered over 1.5 million views and downloads across channels. His firm specializes in creating high-conversion, human-centered content that doesn’t rely on ads - just authority.
John’s current work focuses on building scalable influence systems for B2B and dental clients nationwide.
Two Decades in Dental Industry Growth
Prior to founding his agency, John spent nearly 20 years in the dental industry, working with DSOs, manufacturers, educators, and CE providers. His experience includes:
• Performance Coach, Mortenson Dental Partners - Built and scaled a proprietary KPI platform for 65 practice teams generating over $45M in annual production
• Co-Founder, CE Exchange - Partnered with the American Association of Dental Boards to accredit CE content nationwide
• VP of Education, Dental Whale - Led curriculum strategy for national CE and business education
• Sales Leadership, Brasseler USA & Commonwealth Labs - Managed $10M+ territories and 85+ team members across sales districts
These roles shaped John’s 360° perspective on dentistry - from chairside communication to executive decision-making - and his work continues to help practices grow through better messaging, alignment, and culture.
Leadership Roots: U.S. Navy Submarine Service
John’s foundation in leadership was forged during eight years of service in the U.S. Navy Submarine Force. A graduate of both Naval Cooking School and Naval Submarine School, he finished first in class in both programs and earned multiple commendations:
• Navy Achievement Medal & Navy Commendation Medal
• “Recruiting Station of the Year” - Los Angeles District (2000)
• 156% over quota with 77 enlisted placements in two years
This experience instilled the discipline, humility, and mission-focus that continues to guide his approach to business and team development today.
Foundation Dental Alliance Strategic Value
John’s presence on the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board adds a unique combination of digital authority, real-world dental insight, and veteran leadership. His contributions directly support FDA’s strategic goals in three key areas:
• Media development - Driving visibility through video storytelling, social repurposing, and organic engagement
• Practice growth systems - Supporting education, CE partnerships, and messaging frameworks for private practice success
• Leadership development - Enhancing team performance through story-based alignment and communication training
John’s commitment to integrity, excellence, and clarity makes him a powerful ally for dentists seeking meaningful growth.
Key Areas of Expertise:
• Multi-platform video strategy and podcast production
• Dental CE accreditation and digital distribution
• KPI systems and unscheduled treatment conversion
• Executive team coaching and communication alignment
• National content syndication and audience growth
John is based in Louisville, Kentucky and consults nationwide. Contact: www.JohnStamperMedia.com
Dr. Tony Stefanou
CEO & Founder, Connect the Dents | M&A Advisor | Certified Business Intermediary | Founder, Dental Sales Academy
Strategic M&A Advisor & Dental Industry Connector
Dr. Anthony Stefanou brings over 35 years of multifaceted dental experience—from private practice ownership to global business development—to his role as a strategic advisor within the Foundation Dental Alliance. As the Founder and CEO of Connect the Dents, Anthony specializes in mergers and acquisitions, practice valuations, and business expansion for dental manufacturers, DSOs, service providers, and technology companies.
Licensed as a dentist since 1987 and holding the prestigious Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) designation from the International Business Brokers Association, Anthony offers rare dual insight: the mindset of a clinician and the business acumen of a dealmaker. His advisory work focuses on connecting dental companies with strategic buyers and sellers, identifying scalable partnership opportunities, and delivering valuation strategies that support long-term growth.
Business Psychology & Practice Valuation
Dr. Stefanou is the developer of the OPA® (Objective Practice Appraisal) system—a national solution for practice valuations used by hundreds of dental companies and advisors each year. His data-backed approach to transition planning allows dentists to make informed decisions grounded in true market value.
He is also the creator of the Dental Sales Academy, through which he teaches the psychology of dental buying decisions. His flagship workshop, “How to Sell to Dental Offices,” has been delivered at over 100 national meetings, helping dental sales teams shift from transactional tactics to trust-based communication rooted in emotional understanding.
Thought Leadership & Industry Engagement
Beyond consulting and training, Dr. Stefanou is a nationally recognized speaker and facilitator of dental business education. He has keynoted national sales meetings for major dental brands and runs quarterly business growth workshops from his New York City office center.
As the Founder of TriviaDent, Anthony created an educational platform combining dental knowledge, humor, and community engagement. The platform boasts over 10,000 questions and hosts live and virtual trivia events for industry professionals looking to connect and learn in a fun, interactive way.
Strategic Value to Foundation Dental Alliance
Anthony’s appointment to the FDA Advisory Board brings unique value to members navigating transitions, scaling opportunities, or broader business expansion. His strategic contributions to the Foundation focus on:
• M&A guidance and exit strategy development for dentists preparing to sell or merge
• Business model clarity and market positioning for dentists growing multi-location groups
• Sales and communication psychology to enhance training programs and vendor partnerships
His advisory presence strengthens FDA’s commitment to empowering private practice dentists with tools, training, and insight typically reserved for corporate players.
Key Areas of Expertise
• Mergers & acquisitions for dental companies and private practices
• Practice valuation and objective transition planning
• Dental product and service positioning strategy
• Sales psychology, training, and business development
• Executive networking, partnerships, and DSO strategy
Michael Stevens
Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations – Perimetrics, Inc. | Founder & Growth Strategist | Implant Industry Accelerator | Dental Tech Investor
Michael Stevens is a seasoned executive and private equity strategist with over 22 years of experience scaling innovative ventures in dentistry, healthcare technology, and beyond. As Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations at Perimetrics, Inc., he plays a critical leadership role in bringing InnerView®—a first-of-its-kind AI-driven diagnostic system—to market, positioning it as a category-defining solution in implant stability and early failure detection.
Michael’s career is defined by his ability to engineer rapid growth. As the Founding Partner and CEO of Ditron Dental USA, he launched the company’s U.S. footprint and executed a strategic partnership with Ultratooth Dental that grew implant sales by 500% in just 12 months. His leadership has extended across multiple high-growth roles including SVP at BIODENT, Chief Commercial Officer at Strathspey Crown, and executive oversight at Zelegent, Alphaeon Credit, and BIOLASE—where he helped spearhead major expansions in both technology integration and sales velocity.
Known for his relentless execution, investor acumen, and operational clarity, Michael brings together a rare combination of startup intensity and enterprise precision. His ability to navigate capital markets, guide M&A strategy, and influence boardroom decisions has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and scale-stage operator.
At the Foundation Dental Alliance, Michael provides invaluable insight into product commercialization, strategic partnerships, and the future of diagnostic technology in dentistry.
Key Areas of Expertise:
• Dental technology commercialization
• Implant industry growth strategy
• Executive leadership & investor relations
• Operational scaling and GTM strategy
• AI diagnostics and strategic partnerships
Nancy Lashley Sullivan
Founder, Athena Marketing | Advisory Board Member, Foundation Dental Alliance
When Marketing Wasn’t a Profession, She Created It
"What fun is life if you can’t talk with ease, enjoy your favorite foods, sing with abandon, or smile your love upon your beloved?"
This isn’t just a quote from Nancy Lashley Sullivan.
It’s the philosophy behind her work, her legacy, and her leadership.
Before dental marketing was even considered a profession, Nancy was quietly creating it—designing authentic, story-driven brands that helped dentists attract loyal patients, inspire aligned teams, and scale meaningful practices.
While others sold Yellow Pages ads and cookie-cutter brochures, Nancy built a blueprint for trust-based growth—helping dentists discover not just what to say, but who they are.
Market Creation Through Authentic Strategy
Nancy Lashley Sullivan didn’t just enter the dental marketing space—she created it. At a time when the industry relied on Yellow Pages ads and templated brochures, she pioneered a relationship-based model that transformed marketing from a line-item expense into a growth engine. Her innovation positioned marketing as a strategic investment that builds patient trust, strengthens practice culture, and creates sustainable value.
Since founding Athena Marketing in 2003, Nancy has guided hundreds of practices nationwide with her proprietary “10 Points of Marketing Light” framework. This system redefined best practices by focusing on:
• Trust-building rather than transaction-pushing
• Cultural alignment instead of generic messaging
• Sustainable growth that enhances professional fulfillment, not just production
Her influence extends far beyond business. As Chair of the Board of Trustees for the Give Back a Smile Foundation (AACD), she has coordinated more than $18 million in donated dental care, restoring 2,000+ smiles for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. For Nancy, market leadership and humanitarian service are inseparable—demonstrating that authentic strategy can change both practices and lives.
Strategic Roles & Influence
• Founder & President: Athena Marketing (2003–Present)
Original dental marketing firm known for custom brand identity, strategy, and storytelling.
• Chair: Board of Trustees, Give Back a Smile (AACD) Oversees one of dentistry’s most impactful charitable organizations.
• Partner: Smile4Ward Co-creator of the All4One Gameplan, a team alignment and communication system.
• Former Messaging Director: OperaDDS / Prehensile SoftwareBrand leader during the rise of digital dental tools.
FDA Alignment: Vision, Not Just Voice
Nancy’s presence on the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board ensures that every message in our ecosystem speaks with soul—not just polish.
Her philosophy echoes FDA’s deepest values:
• Autonomy over conformity
• Culture before conversion
• Legacy, not just leverage
She represents the evolution from advertising-based growth to identity-based branding, helping dentists attract the right patients—not just more patients.
In a world full of marketing noise, Nancy teaches doctors how to build a signal worth listening to.
What Makes Nancy Blue Ocean
• She didn’t enter the dental marketing space—she invented it
• She refused templates and taught the industry to do the same
• She scaled a movement based on values, not vanity
• She transformed marketing from a business expense into a leadership tool
Why We Trust Nancy
Nancy doesn’t just help practices look better.
She helps them feel aligned, sound clear, and grow with integrity. Her impact can be measured in production—but more importantly, it shows up in confidence, culture, and community.
With Nancy on the Advisory Board, Foundation Dental Alliance doesn’t just communicate better.
We lead better.
Karen Winkle
President & Founder, Phoenix Dental Consultants | Strategic Practice Advisor | Culture Reset Specialist | Leadership & Conflict Resolution Expert
Transforming Practices Through Clarity, Accountability & Culture
Karen Braswell-Winkle is a nationally respected advisor in dental practice transformation, known for her no-nonsense leadership style and her ability to help dentists reclaim control of their teams, their business, and their lives. As President and Founder of Phoenix Dental Consultants (Dental Manager 911, LLC), she brings over 30 years of experience in chairside care, clinical operations, and executive management to every client engagement.
Her background blends real-world clinical knowledge with deep behavioral insights. Karen began her career as a lead clinical assistant at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry before earning degrees in Theology, Psychology, and Music Education. She later held consulting and analyst roles at both Mercer Global Advisors and the Schuster Center, where she developed her signature approach to full-system practice transformation.
Leadership Systems Rooted in Truth, Not Tactics
Karen’s consulting framework emphasizes direct communication, values-based leadership, and the elimination of hallway management. Her custom-designed solutions address the root causes of dysfunction—focusing on culture, communication, and clearly defined expectations.
She is best known for helping dentists navigate the most difficult challenges in practice ownership: fractured teams, inconsistent leadership, and burnout rooted in poor boundaries. Her approach resets the culture, restores accountability, and realigns the practice around purpose.
Karen’s most effective strategies include conflict resolution protocols, team alignment systems, and leadership communication coaching. She’s guided hundreds of practice owners through emotional and operational transformation with clarity, structure, and compassion.
Strategic Impact on the Foundation Dental Alliance
As a trusted member of the Foundation Dental Alliance Advisory Board, Karen brings decades of clinical-to-consulting wisdom, proven leadership systems, and a national reputation for transforming practice culture. Her contributions to FDA include:
• Supporting dentists through conflict resolution and leadership restructuring
• Designing custom culture reset systems for member practices
• Advising on growth strategies that protect family-first leadership and long-term clarity
• Helping refine training programs and transition strategies within the FDA ecosystem
Karen’s presence amplifies FDA’s mission to help dentists lead with courage, build with clarity, and create practices that reflect their values.
Key Areas of Expertise
• Comprehensive practice transformation and operational redesign
• Team culture development and conflict resolution
• Strategic planning, diagnostics, and growth implementation
• Leadership communication and accountability systems
• Oral-systemic health integration and custom consulting design