This year’s AID National Symposium in beautiful Naples, Florida, was everything we hoped it would be, and more. The setting was perfect. The energy was real. And the people… were exactly why this organization exists. 

From the very first welcome to the final conversations at weekend’s end, there was a consistent feeling shared by everyone in attendance: this group is different. What brings us together is a shared commitment - to independence, to excellence, and to leading our practices with integrity in a rapidly changing landscape.

We had representation from 23 states, with both familiar faces and many new members joining for the first time. The enthusiasm that began last year didn’t just continue, it grew. It validated that what we are building together matters, and that our message is spreading across the country.

A Weekend of Insight, Strategy, and Inspiration

Dr. Kristine Grazioso, our host, opened the conference by reflecting on the roots of AID, how a small group of committed dentists came together a decade ago and proved that independent dentists can stand toe-to-toe with – and win against - large corporate entities. She led the weekend with a rare combination of grace, humor, and authority that set the tone for everything that followed. 

Our keynote speaker, Dr. Marco Fernandez, President of the Association for Independent Medicine (AIM), delivered a powerful and eye-opening presentation on the risks of losing professional autonomy. Sharing his experience in medicine, he highlighted the realities of corporate and private equity influence in healthcare, and why independent dentists must be paying attention. 

Dr. Jill Tanzi challenged the audience with a simple but powerful truth: independent dentists are still the majority, but no longer the priority. She made a compelling case that the current system is not representing us, and that AID is the organization built to do exactly that. 

Dr. Amy Adair provided an important update on the Government Affairs Committee, showcasing real advocacy in action. From involvement in the DOJ/FTC investigation into Delta Dental of Wisconsin’s acquisition of dental practices, to raising awareness of insurer-owned clinic models like Harmony Whole Person Oral Healthcare, her presentation made it clear: AID is not just talking about change, we are actively participating in it. 

Dr. Jeff Grove shared one of the most impactful stories of the weekend. From building a highly successful practice to experiencing the harsh realities of DSO involvement, his journey resonated deeply. His honesty about both the highs and the lows, and his renewed commitment to independence, gave attendees both caution and hope.

Dr. Brady Smith is a dentist. He is a stand-up comedian. He is a worldwide social media phenom. He brought a level of hilarity and fun to the convention that was the perfect balance for the business and mission-based learning we were doing. We were definitely transported to a late-night comedy club, laughing so hard we cried, smack dab in the middle of the convention.

Steve Anderson delivered two outstanding sessions packed with practical, immediately applicable strategies. His first session tackled one of the biggest questions facing independent dentists today: Should you go insurance-free? His second focused on leadership, how to build strong teams, communicate effectively, and create a culture that drives success. His insights were both actionable and transformative.

Saturday began with social media and marketing expert Minal Sampat, who energized the room with a masterclass. She broke down the difference between marketing and marketing strategy, and showed how to identify, connect with, and attract the right patients. Her message was clear: being excellent clinically isn’t enough, your community has to know it.

The conference concluded with Dr. Christian Coachman, who delivered an inspiring presentation on the future of dentistry. A passionate advocate for independent practice, he demonstrated how cutting-edge technology, materials, and collaboration can elevate patient care, and how we can better communicate that value to our patients.