534. The Anatomy of a Successful Exit with Michael Filosi

What does it take to sell a thriving dental practice in just 81 days? In this episode, Dr Jesse Green is joined by returning guest Michael Filosi, who opens up about the mindset, strategy, and execution behind his successful business exit. From humble beginnings with possums in the walls to running a ten-chair, thirty-person operation, Michael shares how he built a high-performing, sale-ready practice, and why he chose to let it go. Whether you're considering a future exit or simply want to build a better business today, this candid conversation dives deep into leadership, culture, team management, and knowing when it's time to move on. It's a must-listen for any dental entrepreneur. In this episode: [00:01] Michael announces the sale of his dental practice and reflects on why he made the decision to exit [04:12] The turning point: how he realised the business no longer aligned with his values or energy [06:00] From two chairs and possums in the walls to a 10-chair, 30+ staff high-performing operation [08:38] Why being “sale-ready” long before selling enabled an 81-day exit [10:55] What makes a practice attractive to buyers: reduced key-person risk, systemisation, and culture [14:25] Building culture by design - leading through values, action, and high expectations [17:04] Scaling lessons: how every two-chair jump brought new systems, structures, and complexity [20:37] Transitioning from dentist to CEO: why Michael leaned into business as his craft [30:15] The “solar system” metaphor: how Michael sees the practice team—and the value of flagpoles over flags [44:19] Final advice: why owning a practice comes with risk—and how to ensure it's truly worth it. Resources & Links: Michael Filosi on LinkedIn Join the free Savvy Dentist Facebook Group Follow Dr Jesse Green on LinkedIn Visit Savvy Dentist website Mentioned in this episode: Savvy Dentist Team Training Bundle If your practice can’t run without you, it’s time for systems - not more theory. That’s why we created the Savvy Dentist Team Training Bundle - five powerful, system-driven programs including Front Desk All Stars, the Million Dollar Dentist, Practice Manager Masterclass, Advanced Treatment Coordinator Training, and High-Performance Hygiene. Each course delivers practical, step-by-step systems your team can use every day to build accountability and create a self-managing practice. Save $2,000 for a limited time — visit savvydentist.com/team-training. Team Training Bundle 2025

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534. The Anatomy of a Successful Exit with Michael Filosi is an episode from The Savvy Dentist by Dr Jesse Green.

This episode is 58:42 long.

This episode was published on Feb 3, 2026.

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