Inside the Mind of Dr. Pete McClellan: Leadership, Discipline and the Future of Relationship-Based Dentistry

By Dr. Reza Ardalan

Get an inside look at how Dr. Pete McClellan built a thriving multi-location practice without losing sight of relationships, communication and clinical clarity. In this episode, he shares the systems, lessons and leadership principles that helped him scale sustainably, support mid-career dentists, and create practices where doctors can thrive without burning out.

Occasionally, I sit down with a guest whose story reminds me why I love doing this podcast. This week’s conversation with my good friend Dr. Pete McClellan was one of those moments. Pete is one of the most thoughtful, well-rounded dentists I know, and his path through athletics, military service, advanced clinical training, and entrepreneurship makes him one of the most compelling voices in dentistry today.

Inside the Episode

One of the most powerful parts of our conversation centered on leadership and entrepreneurship. Pete doesn’t operate like the typical dentist-turned-business owner. He has always thought in teams, not silos. But he’s the first to admit he made mistakes early on by delegating without clearly defining what success looked like. Today, he teaches his team through scoreboards and simple metrics. Not complicated dashboards. Not endless KPIs. Just clarity. Everyone knows what a win looks like and their role in achieving it.

If you’re a dentist trying to lead better, build a healthier practice, sharpen your clinical lens or find a more sustainable way to grow, this conversation is worth your time. Pete’s story isn’t just inspiring. It’s practical. He’s lived the challenges many of us face, and he’s built systems that allow him and his team to thrive. He built his practice around that philosophy. Fewer new patients. More meaningful conversations. Clear explanations of risk. And dentistry that lasts because it’s planned with a complete understanding of how the system functions.

This episode reminded me that excellent dentistry isn’t just about skills or technology. It’s about who you are, how you show up, and how well you understand the people you’re trying to help. I hope you’ll take the time to listen to the full episode on the Dental Slang Podcast. It’s one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve had, and I know you’ll take something valuable from it.

Key Takeaways:

• How to build trust-based relationships with patients that make treatment conversations more effective.

• Common mistakes dentists make when expanding their practice and how to avoid them.

• How to delegate effectively to prevent becoming a bottleneck in your practice.

• The importance of having a clear vision and “why” before growing your practice.

• How to implement systems and processes that create consistency across multiple offices.

• When and why it makes sense to bring in outside experts to support your business growth.

• Ways to maintain autonomy, prevent burnout, and stay effective while growing your business.

Whether you’re just starting your career or planning the next chapter, this episode gives you the clarity and direction most dentists wish they had years earlier. Don’t leave your financial future to chance.

Listen to the full episode and take control of your financial journey today.