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2020-04-10  • 18 min

The GIVE Secret: Background Research For Startups

The Startup Dentist

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The GIVE Secret: A Purpose-Driven Strategy for Dental Startup Success

Welcome, dentists! If you’re preparing to open your own practice, you’re likely riding that wave of excitement… mixed with a healthy dose of “Where do I even start?”

You’re not alone. As someone who’s worked closely with over 900 dental startups through Ideal Practices, I’ve seen the real-world ups and downs of launching a practice. And I’ve learned that the most successful owners—the ones who build something sustainable, meaningful, and fulfilling—start with more than just a checklist.

They start with purpose. And that’s where the GIVE secret comes in.

Why the GIVE Secret Matters More Than Ever

Let’s rewind for a second.

I’m Stephen Trutter, and I didn’t just stumble into this work. Years ago, I was in the same position many of you are in now—standing at a crossroads, looking to build something that didn’t just generate income, but made a real difference. That journey led me to Ideal Practices… and to the GIVE process.

This concept was first developed by Jayme Amos, the founder of Ideal Practices. And he didn’t create it as a marketing gimmick or a flashy acronym. He created it as a way to serve dentists—and their communities—with depth and purpose. It started as a personal mission and has evolved into one of the most impactful strategies in dental startup consulting.

What Is the GIVE Process, Really?

Let’s be clear: GIVE is not just about giving back. It’s not charity dressed up as business.

GIVE is a powerful strategy that blends smart real estate planning, targeted community marketing, and a service-first mindset—all grounded in the unique goals of startup dentists.

When implemented well, the GIVE approach:

• Attracts loyal, value-driven patients

• Differentiates your practice from corporate competitors

• Builds early trust in your community

• Positions your practice as more than just a business—it’s a community partner

It’s about creating something bigger than yourself, while still building a practice that’s financially sound and primed for growth.

Why Some Dentists Struggle with GIVE (and How to Avoid It)

I won’t sugarcoat it—some dentists attempt the GIVE model and don’t see the results they hoped for. Often, that’s because they view it as a tactic instead of a strategy and mindset.

The ones who succeed lean into the heart of it. They lead with vision. They understand their community. They go beyond a one-time promotion and bake generosity into their culture—from day one.

If you’re thinking, “That sounds expensive,” I hear you. But here’s the kicker: GIVE is scalable. You don’t need to throw a $50,000 free dental day to see results. You just need the right mix of intention and smart business planning. We’ve helped dentists implement GIVE in lean, strategic ways that still deliver big impact—and big growth.

Key Lessons from the GIVE Approach

• GIVE wasn’t invented in a boardroom—it came from real dentists who wanted to do more than drill and fill.

• It combines real estate, marketing, and culture to drive long-term sustainability—not just a quick patient surge.

• It’s not about hype or heroism. It’s about building trust, momentum, and alignment between your values and your business.

What Jayme Learned—and Why It Still Applies

Jayme often says, “I’m telling you what I believe you should do because I’ve been there.” And that’s what makes GIVE so different. It’s rooted in empathy, not theory. In action, not just advice.

His journey, and the hundreds of practices that followed the GIVE blueprint, prove that purpose and profit can go hand-in-hand. And when they do? That’s when practices thrive—not just financially, but personally and culturally, too.

So, Should You Consider GIVE for Your Startup?

If you're a dentist preparing to open your own practice and you want more than just a high-volume machine—GIVE might be exactly what you're looking for.

You don’t have to go it alone. You don’t have to guess what works. You can build a thriving, purpose-driven business that stands out from the crowd and builds real connection in your community.

Want to Learn More?

Explore the GIVE approach, meet other startup-minded dentists, and get access to resources that can help you put this strategy into motion:

• Visit IdealPractices.com

• Join the Startup Crew Facebook Group to hear how others are building GIVE-based practices

• Reach out to our team for personalized guidance and startup support

Thanks for being here—and for considering a startup path that’s not just smart, but meaningful. With the right mindset and the right strategy, your practice can be a business and a legacy.