In celebration of dentalcorp’s 10th anniversary, we’re shining the spotlight on our first two Partners Drs. Larry Podolsky and David Mady, who have been instrumental players in the continued growth and success of our network. We discuss the biggest highlights in their decade of partnership, the most valuable lessons they’ve learned in their careers, and how they continue to stay energized in their practice.
Multi-clinic owners Podolsky and Mady currently practice as principal dentists at Dentistry on Greenlane in Thornhill, ON, and Madison Dental and Alexis Dental in Windsor/Essex, ON, respectively. With over 60 years of combined experience, both dentists are passionate about providing quality care to families in their communities.
What has been the biggest highlight in your 10 years of partnership with dentalcorp?
Mady: The highlights are multifold, and I could write pages about it. I would have to say the most memorable moment was in October 2011, when I met with dentalcorp executives and decided to become a partner in what has become one of the most successful businesses in Canadian history. I haven’t regretted my decision once. Over the last decade, I have felt incredibly supported by the partnership. I have been provided an infinite amount of continuing education and training opportunities to better my knowledge in this great profession. They have also provided me with leading-edge technology and equipment to stay ahead of the curve. The support from dentalcorp has been phenomenal, especially through the recent pandemic.
Podolsky: For me, the biggest highlight in my partnership with dentalcorp is being part of this dynamic, innovative, and successful company from the very beginning. Watching dentalcorp thrive over the years and grow into the largest dental network in the country has been so rewarding. It makes me so proud that I’ve been a part of this incredible success story and witnessed firsthand what great vision and leadership can accomplish.
What’s the best part about being in the dentalcorp network?
Podolsky: I feel I belong to a fraternity and have acquired many new friends and mentors who would not hesitate to share and provide support. I have grown from being a solo practitioner to belonging to a vibrant, outstanding group of professional colleagues. There is also access to an incredible education department providing world-class professional development.
Mady: Being a part of the dentalcorp network has afforded me a world-class partner, enabling me and my teams to grow, learn and excel. I have also had the good fortune to be supported by a collaborative network while having complete autonomy with respect to the running of my practices and our patient care. dentalcorp has removed many of the administrative obstacles that were keeping me from doing what I do best and love the most – which is providing exceptional dental care to my patients. I have had assistance whenever I needed it in all areas of the practice, including but not limited to marketing, human resources, and compliance. My working life has become a lot easier and less stressful, and at the same time, partnership has allowed me to create wealth for my family and plan a quality future retirement for myself. It’s been a truly mutually beneficial relationship.
What are you most proud of accomplishing in your respective careers and what do you still hope to accomplish?
Mady: After nearly 30 years of practicing dentistry, I am most proud of inspiring my two daughters, Madison and Alexis, to follow in my footsteps. Growing up, they watched me have a rewarding career, and how my partnership with dentalcorp made it even better and ultimately enabled us to have a great life. Madison is now practicing dentistry at my side and has joined the dentalcorp network. Alexis is currently in her third year of dental school and hopefully will join our team in 2023. I hope to retire at some point and leave a legacy that my children can carry on and assist in the running and growth of my six dental practices.
Podolsky: I feel incredibly fulfilled with my career and I couldn’t be happier with having the most incredible, loving, and supportive family to share it all with me. I have a very successful practice that has been the core of my professional life for over 30 years, and I pride myself on constantly growing and staying abreast with all the changes that have occurred in our fast-moving profession. I’m proud of building an entire career based on integrity and a team that is motivated and energized to provide the best patient experience. I hope to be able to mentor and guide young dentists to achieve success. My aim is to use my experience to coach dental offices in principles of best practice management and patient experience.
How do you continue to stay energized in your practice?
Mady: I am able to stay energized because, at this point in time, I truly feel that my hands, eyes and brain are working extremely well together – probably the best that they ever have. I am enjoying my work and it has become more fun. I enjoy the relationships with staff and patients more than ever. I still love the satisfaction of providing people with a service that they can’t provide for themselves in an extremely comfortable and caring environment. I continue to mentor new young dental professionals pre- and post-dental school, and that makes it all even better. After all, success is about helping others develop and adding value.
Podolsky: I’m able to stay vitalized in my practice because I’ve managed to attain a great work-life balance. I make time for my growing family and my many interests. The loyalty from my staff and patients continues to reward and inspire me.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your careers?
Podolsky: The most important lesson I’ve learned is to be open to change and adapt with the times. What I’ve also learned is that every day must be a great day. Anyone who represents me and my practice know that moods are left at the door and our patient experience is what matters most.
Mady: The biggest lesson that I have learned is that the most important thing I can do to ensure my success in this profession is to listen. If we listen to our patients, we learn not only about their dental needs but also about them as individuals. This helps us grow and gain the experience needed to treat each patient according to their unique needs. I have learned that happiness is not about making money, but about having a balanced life, including a career that one can enjoy until retirement. Lastly, I have learned that honesty and integrity are paramount – and have certainly paid off for me.
What advice do you have for emerging dentists hoping for a success story like yours?
Mady: The best advice that I can give emerging dentists hoping for a successful career like mine is to crawl before they walk and walk before they run. Also, if you smile, the world smiles with you and if you cry, you cry alone. By this I mean to always have a positive attitude and convey positive energy and the universe will bring them happiness, fulfillment, and success while making them magnetic to their patients and team member alike. Additionally, if they ever have the opportunity in their own life and career to find a partner like dentalcorp that allows them to secure the legacy of their business as they continue to practice, it will be a great path for them as it has been for me.
Podolsky: Dentistry is a great profession with many fields of opportunity. My advice to young dentists is to find what you love to do and learn to do it well. Take educated risks and never stop growing.
