We Call This Work

About We Call This Work

Bringing awareness to the opportunities in Southern Illinois communities!

Publisher

We Call This Work

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Mar 2025

Latest episode

17 Oct 2025

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   17 Oct 2025

   Money and Mindset in Business

   Drs. Travis Cripps and Luke Steele explore the crucial role of mindset and smart financial strategies in overcoming business challenges, especially within the dental industry, in this interview.

2. 

   10 Oct 2025

   Season 2: Hiring and Firing in the Dental World

   Hosts Dr. Travis Cripps and Dr. Luke Steele explore the complexities of hiring and firing in the dental field, discussing team dynamics, emotional challenges, and strategies for effective business practices in this interview episode.

3. 

   4 May 2025

   Episode 8: Corporate Dentistry in Rural Areas

   In this episode of the We Call This Work podcast, Dr. Travis Cripps and Dr. Luke Steele engage in a comprehensive discussion about the complexities of dental practice ownership, particularly in rural areas. They explore the implications of multiple practice ownership, the balance between profit and patient care, and the challenges of hiring and retaining staff. The conversation also delves into the differences between corporate dentistry and private practice, emphasizing the importance of ethical treatment plans and building strong relationships with patients. The hosts encourage self-awareness among dental professionals and highlight the significance of community engagement in practice success. Takeaways No question is a stupid question. Self-awareness is crucial in practice management. Profit should never come before patient care. Multiple practice ownership can be complex and challenging. Building relationships with patients is key to practice success. Corporate dentistry has its pros and cons compared to private practice. Hiring and retaining staff is a significant challenge in dentistry. Ethical treatment plans are essential for patient trust. Flexibility in small business allows for quick adaptations. Community engagement enhances the value of dental practices. Navigating Multiple Practice Ownership in Dentistry The Balance of Profit and Patient Care "No question is a stupid question." "It comes down to self-awareness." "If you build it, they will come." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement 01:26 Exploring Multiple Practice Ownership 05:27 Self-Awareness in Practice Management 08:21 Balancing Patient Care and Profit 15:28 Corporate Dentistry: Myths and Realities 22:46 The Importance of Ethical Treatment Plans 23:39 Ethical Problem Solving in Dentistry 24:53 Building Confidence and Experience 27:02 Challenges of Small Market Dentistry 28:17 Corporate vs. Private Practice Dynamics 30:52 The Importance of Community Relationships 32:48 Adapting to Change in Private Practice 39:46 The Value of Autonomy in Dentistry 44:03 Self-Awareness and Career Choices

4. 

   27 Apr 2025

   Episode 7: "The Customer is Always Right" is Wrong

   In this episode of the We Call This Work podcast, Dr. Luke Steele and Dr. Travis Cripps discuss the expectations that both patients and dental professionals have in a dental practice. They emphasize the importance of mutual respect, open communication, and accountability in the patient-doctor relationship. The conversation covers various aspects of patient experience, handling difficult situations, and the impact of reviews and feedback on dental practices. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights to illustrate their points, ultimately advocating for a collaborative and respectful environment in dental care. TAKEAWAYS Patients have high expectations when visiting a dental office. Respect and dignity should be mutual between patients and staff. Open communication can prevent misunderstandings and improve patient experience. Accountability is essential for both patients and dental professionals. Handling difficult situations with empathy is crucial in dental practice. Creating a positive environment enhances patient satisfaction. Reviews can be subjective and may not reflect the true quality of care. It's important to set clear boundaries in patient interactions. A little appreciation can go a long way in building relationships. The dental profession requires a balance of business and care. Setting Expectations in Dental Care The Importance of Communication in Dentistry "Open communication is key." "I want to help you out." "Everything is marketing." Chapters 00:00 Setting Expectations in Dental Care 03:14 Respect and Communication in the Dental Office 06:15 Accountability and Policies 09:29 The Importance of Open Communication 12:17 Empathy and Understanding in Patient Care 15:17 Building Positive Relationships with Patients 21:54 The Impact of Attitude in Dentistry 24:51 Navigating Patient Expectations 27:23 Advancements in Dental Technology 30:30 Enhancing Patient Experience 32:18 Marketing Through Patient Interactions 35:06 Understanding Mutual Expectations 38:06 Handling Reviews and Feedback

5. 

   18 Apr 2025

   Episode 6: Lessons Learned

   In this episode, Dr. Travis Cripps and Dr. Luke Steele reflect on their podcast journey, discussing the insights gained from their guests and the importance of community engagement in dentistry. They emphasize the value of patient care, the challenges faced by new dentists, and the significance of building a good reputation in the field. The conversation also touches on the benefits of residency and continuing education, as well as the importance of trust within the community. Looking ahead, they express excitement for future episodes featuring specialists and the opportunity to further explore these themes.takeaways The podcast has been well-received by the community. Community engagement is a vital aspect of dental practice. Every guest shares a common theme of valuing community. The first six months of practice are crucial for new dentists. Experience is more valuable than immediate financial gain. Residency can significantly enhance a dentist's skills. Building a good reputation is essential in dentistry. Patient care should always be prioritized. Trust between dentists and patients is critical. Future episodes will feature specialists to provide more insights. The Journey of Dentistry: Lessons Learned Community and Care: The Heart of Dentistry "You have to reframe your mindset." "Maybe COVID wasn't the worst thing ever." "You have to do the best job you can." Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey 04:16 Community Engagement in Dentistry 08:15 Lessons from Guests: Insights and Experiences 12:11 The Importance of Residency and Training 16:24 Building Confidence in Practice 20:19 Caring for Patients and Community 24:12 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions

6. 

   13 Apr 2025

   Episode 5: Dr Nathan Leiske

   In this episode of the We Call This Work podcast, Dr. Lucas Steele and Travis Cripps interview Dr. Nathan Leiske, a successful dentist practicing in Southern Illinois. Dr. Leiske shares his journey from Washington to Illinois, discussing the challenges and opportunities in rural dentistry, the impact of insurance on practice, and the importance of community involvement. He emphasizes the need for financial planning for new dentists and the value of building a good reputation in the community. The conversation also touches on the rewards of dentistry, including the joy of transforming patients' smiles and the importance of supporting local initiatives. Dr. Leiske's insights provide valuable guidance for dental students and young professionals navigating their careers. Takeaways Dr. Leiske emphasizes the importance of community involvement in building a successful dental practice. Rural areas often provide better opportunities for dentists without the constraints of insurance companies. Financial planning is crucial for new dentists to manage student debt and ensure long-term success. Building a good reputation in the community can lead to a steady stream of patients. Dentistry can be incredibly rewarding, especially when transforming patients' smiles. The Casey's effect highlights the potential for success in rural areas with a strong community presence. New dentists should seek mentorship and guidance to avoid common pitfalls in their careers. Organized dentistry can provide valuable resources and support for young professionals. It's important to treat patients ethically and with respect to foster trust and loyalty. Dentists should not judge patients by their appearance, as true wealth often comes from unexpected places. Transforming Dentistry in Southern Illinois The Journey of a Rural Dentist "Every place needs good dentists." "I would do it again." "I love extracting teeth." Sound Bites 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Nathan Lyski 01:36 Journey to Southern Illinois 05:21 The Impact of Insurance on Dentistry 09:39 The Appeal of Rural Dentistry 12:49 The Casey's Effect in Dentistry 19:27 Challenges Faced by New Dentists 24:25 Financial Planning for Dentists 29:57 Building a Supportive Dental Community 34:20 Creating a Supportive Dental Community 37:22 The Importance of Organized Dentistry 39:36 Giving Back to the Community 41:16 Transformative Patient Experiences 44:24 The Value of a Good Partner 45:39 Lightning Round: Insights and Reflections

7. 

   6 Apr 2025

   Episode 4: Dr Ethan Grounds

   SUMMARY In this episode of 'We Call This Work', Dr. Ethan Grounds shares his journey in dentistry, discussing his transition from associate to practice owner in a small town. He highlights the unique opportunities and challenges faced in rural dentistry, particularly regarding patient care and insurance dynamics. The conversation delves into the importance of work-life balance, the impact of insurance on practice profitability, and the personal fulfillment derived from serving a community. The episode concludes with a lightning round of questions, providing insights into Dr. Grounds' experiences and perspectives on the dental profession. TAKEAWAYS Ethan Grounds transitioned from associate to practice owner in Harrisburg. Small town dentistry offers unique opportunities for growth. Insurance challenges significantly impact dental practices. Quality of care is prioritized over quantity in patient treatment. Work-life balance is a constant struggle for dental professionals. The income potential in small towns can be higher than in cities. Patients often leave when practices go out of network with insurance. Effective communication with patients is crucial during transitions. Delegating tasks is essential for managing a growing practice. Community involvement enhances the fulfillment of dental practice. Navigating Small Town Dentistry with Dr. Ethan Grounds The Journey from Associate to Practice Owner "Quality over quantity issue." "You have to sacrifice time somewhere." "What do you love most about your job?" SOUND BITES 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ethan Grounds 01:15 Ethan's Journey in Dentistry 05:02 Opportunities in Small Town Dentistry 08:57 Work-Life Balance and Practice Management 11:19 Insurance Challenges in Dentistry 13:32 Quality Over Quantity in Patient Care 16:21 Negotiating Insurance Fees 18:37 The Frustrations of Insurance Companies 19:34 Navigating Dental Insurance Challenges 23:11 Transitioning to Fee-for-Service Models 28:13 Managing Growth and Employee Dynamics 31:16 Lightning Round: Insights and Reflections

8. 

   30 Mar 2025

   Episode 3: Dr Kelsea Ashton

   KEYWORDS orthodontics, Southern Illinois, work-life balance, community involvement, dental school, business ownership, mentorship, small town living, career journey, patient care SUMMARY In this episode of 'We Call This Work', hosts Dr. Travis Cripps and Dr. Luke Steele welcome Kelsea Ashton, an orthodontist from Southern Illinois. Kelsea shares her journey from a young girl dreaming of becoming an orthodontist to her return to her hometown to practice. The conversation explores the benefits of small-town living, the challenges of business ownership, and the importance of community involvement. Kelsea emphasizes the value of work-life balance and the fulfillment she finds in her profession, while also discussing the lessons learned throughout her career. The episode concludes with Kelsea's insights on mentorship and the impact of her role in the community. TAKEAWAYS Kelsea has wanted to be an orthodontist since third grade. Building relationships with patients is a priority for Kelsea. Southern Illinois offers a supportive community for practitioners. Work-life balance is crucial for Kelsea as a business owner. Kelsea values mentorship and collaboration in her practice. The demand for orthodontic care in Southern Illinois is high. Community involvement enhances the practice experience. Kelsea enjoys coaching softball as a way to give back. Owning a business comes with unique challenges and pressures. Kelsea appreciates the bonds formed during dental school. The Journey of an Orthodontist Small Town, Big Dreams: Kelsea Ashton's Story SOUND BITES "There's plenty of patients to go around." "I love being able to make that decision." "I think sometimes it can get lonely." CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Kelsea Ashton 03:14 Kelsea's Journey to Orthodontics 06:16 Returning to Southern Illinois 09:10 The Benefits of Small Town Living 12:14 Challenges of Business Ownership 15:02 Community Involvement and Impact 18:24 Work-Life Balance as a Business Owner 21:13 Lessons Learned in Dentistry 24:21 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

9. 

   22 Mar 2025

   Episode 2: Dr Travis Cripps

   The tables are turned! Dr Luke Steele interviews Dr Travis Cripps from Little Egypt Pediatric Dentistry. This episode is full of business insights and good laughs! Please continue to like, comment, share, and follow us across platforms! Hope you enjoy! Show Notes: KEYWORDS:pediatric dentistry, patient experience, dental practice, business psychology, dental insurance, communication techniques, healthcare, dental anxiety, practice management, dentist PODCAST SUMMARY: In this episode of 'We Call This Work', hosts Travis Cripps and Lucas Steele discuss their experiences in pediatric dentistry, the importance of patient experience, and the challenges of running a dental practice. They explore the psychological aspects of patient interactions, the realities of dental insurance, and effective communication techniques to handle difficult situations. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in healthcare, while also addressing the business side of dentistry. TAKEAWAYS: The feedback from viewers is crucial for improvement. Travis Cripps shares his journey to becoming a pediatric dentist. Creating a fun and comfortable patient experience is essential. Business psychology plays a significant role in dentistry. Future business decisions may involve expanding or maintaining current operations. Handling difficult patients requires effective communication and empathy. Listening to patients can diffuse tension and improve interactions. Dental insurance often complicates patient care and costs. Maintaining a one-doctor practice allows for personalized care. Adaptability is key in managing a dental practice. The Journey to Pediatric Dentistry Creating a Fun Patient Experience "Make dentistry fun." "You have to be a decent salesperson." "I get very defensive." "You kind of kill them with kindness." "You have that adaptability." Sound Bites Introduction and Gratitude 01:14 Travis Cripps: Journey to Pediatric Dentistry 04:10 The Importance of Patient Experience 06:54 Business Psychology in Dentistry 09:53 Future Business Decisions 12:18 Maintaining a One-Doctor Practice 15:11 Handling Difficult Patients 19:42 Effective Communication Techniques 24:12 The Reality of Dental Insurance 26:30 Conclusion and Future Topics

10. 

    16 Mar 2025

    We Call This Work: Pilot Episode

    Check out the pilot episode our new podcast, We Call This Work (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573780637443&__cft__[0]=AZXIoMLlaZldNhvEREovCD-dYEHlqbUy1Vj6inY8pWZKbtmqkVxCgSAhgL3JyUABql4K1onzet2UDVjmsBKbhlpWC6CV_caJAjaHGL93W_UKreR0ZgeBB6y7PeVghOOFpxcO55oLDWwSyeE4RI3RHaQS9b5EJmrTlq0r_g9Qi1NaQWlI3UVOWP8E-zktRB6f4ss&__tn__=-]K-R)! Join Dr. Lucas Steele of Steele Dental and Dr. Travis Cripps, of Little Egypt Pediatric Dentistry (https://www.facebook.com/littleegyptpediatricdentistry?__cft__[0]=AZXIoMLlaZldNhvEREovCD-dYEHlqbUy1Vj6inY8pWZKbtmqkVxCgSAhgL3JyUABql4K1onzet2UDVjmsBKbhlpWC6CV_caJAjaHGL93W_UKreR0ZgeBB6y7PeVghOOFpxcO55oLDWwSyeE4RI3RHaQS9b5EJmrTlq0r_g9Qi1NaQWlI3UVOWP8E-zktRB6f4ss&__tn__=-]K-R), as they dive head first into all things small town dentistry, thriving in rural America and much more! Their episodes will feature in-depth interviews with Southern Illinois natives and beyond, discussing intriguing topics.. all while keeping it real!Give our podcast page a ‘like’ and be on the lookout for upcoming episodes! Keywords dentistry, rural healthcare, Southern Illinois, dental practice, community engagement, small town living, dentist collaboration, healthcare access, dental opportunities, podcast Summary In this inaugural episode of 'We Called This Work,' hosts Travis Cripps and Lucas Steele discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of practicing dentistry in rural Southern Illinois. They reflect on their experiences as dental school classmates and the importance of raising awareness about the need for dental care in underserved areas. The conversation explores the advantages of small-town living, the collaborative spirit among local dentists, and the misconceptions surrounding the viability of dental practices in rural settings. The hosts aim to highlight the potential for growth and community engagement in their region, encouraging more dental professionals to consider practicing in Southern Illinois. Takeaways The podcast aims to raise awareness about rural dentistry. There is a significant shortage of dentists in rural areas. Practicing in small towns offers unique advantages and challenges. Community engagement is crucial for dental practices in underserved areas. Collaboration among local dentists enhances patient care. Rural areas can provide endless opportunities for dental professionals. Patients often travel long distances for dental care in rural settings. Misconceptions about income levels in rural areas can deter dentists from practicing there. The hosts emphasize the importance of being part of the community. The podcast will explore various topics beyond dentistry to engage listeners. Titles Exploring Rural Dentistry The Value of Community in Dentistry Sound Bites "We are in kind of a small group here." "This is God's country. I love it." "You can be as busy as you want to be." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to We Called This Work 01:23 The Importance of Rural Dentistry 06:09 Living and Practicing in Small Towns 10:21 Opportunities in Southern Illinois Dentistry 14:40 Collaboration Among Dentists 18:42 Perceptions of Income in Rural Areas 22:07 The Role of Dentists in the Community 24:09 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

3.0 / 5

2 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 43 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

73

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32

Contact We Call This Work

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.