S1, E42: Epic Dental - Donald and Monica Bailey
What if you could solve dental anxiety and improve oral health with a simple ingredient? In this enlightening episode, Donald and Monica Bailey, founders of Epic Dental, reveal their incredible journey from dealing with childhood cavities to discovering the power of xylitol. Donald shares his personal experiences and how they sparked the creation of innovative dental solutions. Beyond the business, we get an inside look at their life in Utah, balancing business growth, family life, and a popular TikTok account that tackles marriage, family, and mental health.
Donald Bailey's challenging childhood experiences with cavities and his subsequent discovery of xylitol serve as the cornerstone of Epic Dental. As a child, Donald frequently dealt with cavities and the unpleasant experiences associated with dental visits. This personal struggle ignited his interest in finding a solution that could improve oral health. When he came across xylitol, a natural sweetener known for its dental benefits, he realized its potential to revolutionize dental care. This discovery led to the development of Epic Dental's innovative products that incorporate xylitol to promote oral health and reduce dental anxiety.
The Baileys' journey extends beyond their business endeavors. They provide a glimpse into their multifaceted life in Utah, where they manage their company, raise a family, and maintain a popular TikTok account. Their TikTok content covers a wide range of topics, including marriage, family, and mental health, offering valuable insights and advice to their followers. This unique combination of business and personal life creates a dynamic and engaging narrative that resonates with their audience.
Integrating a family member into a business can be transformative, as evidenced by Monica's involvement in Epic Dental. Initially, Donald struggled with comparing his business growth to that of his peers. A pivotal book recommendation led him to realize the need for a strategic partner, someone who could bring a different perspective and skill set to the table. Monica's natural talents and perspectives provided the much-needed boost in execution and implementation, ultimately driving the business's success. This experience underscores the importance of recognizing and utilizing untapped potential within one's immediate circle.
The Baileys also delve into the challenges and rewards of integrating a life partner into a business partnership. Initially, there were ownership issues and resistance, but mature communication and collaboration led to transformation. Establishing accountability and creating standardized processes were crucial steps in overcoming operational challenges. This journey highlights the growth and mutual support that comes from blending personal and professional lives, leading to a stronger, more resilient partnership.
Navigating parenthood while growing a business is no easy task. The Baileys share their experiences of building a new home, managing a company, and expanding their family. Self-reflection and addressing attachment styles play a significant role in their personal development. Therapy and understanding each other's perspectives have been instrumental in their journey. They emphasize the importance of confronting difficult emotions and situations to emerge as healthier, happier individuals and partners. This personal growth enhances their professional effectiveness, creating a positive feedback loop.
Creating content on TikTok has brought unexpected benefits to the Baileys. Sharing their hard-earned knowledge and experiences through this platform has provided therapeutic benefits and expanded their reach. A customer's short testimonial video on TikTok significantly boosted their sales, illustrating the potential of digital word-of-mouth. This anecdote highlights the power of social media in today's digital age and its impact on business growth.
The Baileys also share their passion for food and their favorite dining spots in Salt Lake City. They highlight hidden gems and the joy of introducing family and friends to the local culinary scene. This personal touch adds depth to their narrative, making their story relatable and engaging.
Addressing dental anxieties is a crucial aspect of Epic Dental's mission. The Baileys explore the widespread anxiety and distrust people feel towards dental visits, particularly when dealing with cavities. They discuss how using the right tools, like xylitol gum or mints, can help solve the acid problem and prevent cavities, thereby reducing the stress associated with dental appointments. Practical tips, such as keeping flossers in the car to build good dental habits, are also shared, emphasizing how small changes can make a big difference in oral health.
The episode also highlights the benefits of using a water flosser over traditional string flossing. The ease and enjoyment of using a water flosser make it a preferred choice for many. The Baileys reflect on their journey of building a business, the value of recognizing and addressing blind spots, and the role of platforms like TikTok in expanding their reach. They emphasize the importance of having a supportive partner and maintaining a growth mindset. Additionally, they discuss potential future podcast guests, suggesting Derek Porter from the beauty industry as a fascinating candidate due to his multifaceted career and influence.
Finally, the Baileys explore the remarkable growth and success stories of businesses in Utah. They highlight Kimber James of Borboleta, who started her lash industry business from humble beginnings and turned it into a thriving enterprise. They also discuss Epic Dental's presence on TikTok under the handle epicdental and how interested customers can easily find their products on Amazon by searching for Epic Gum.
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