Leadership Unlocked Curriculum
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Register
- Member - $799
- FAADOM - $799
- MAADOM - $799
- DAADOM - $799
Full Curriculum is Approved for 7.5 CE towards AADOM Distinctions or AGD/PACE CE.
Completion of each module will provide you with a Certificate of Completion for that module.
Leadership isn’t a destination—it’s a continuous journey of growth, clarity, and connection. Whether you're leading a team of five or fifty, Leadership Unlocked is designed to sharpen your leadership edge, deepen your self-awareness, and equip you with the tools to thrive in today’s ever-evolving dental practice environment.
This 14-module program brings together real-world insight, practical strategy, and personal reflection—starting with The Coachability Factor, an opening session by AADOM Executive VP Penny Reed, followed by twelve high-impact leadership modules led by dental industry expert Laura Nelson, and a targeted, clinical team leadership session presented by Stacey Singleton.
Each session is designed to be actionable, engaging, and aligned with the unique challenges faced by dental office managers and administrative leaders. Whether you’re new to leadership or ready to level up, Leadership Unlocked will help you tap into the leader within—and empower others to do the same.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Being a leader isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being open to growth, modeling self-awareness, and empowering others.
This session kicks off the Leadership Unlocked series by introducing one of the most overlooked yet essential qualities of successful leaders—coachability. Being a leader isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being open to growth, modeling self-awareness, and empowering others. Through the lens of coaching-style leadership, attendees will learn how to build trust, invite feedback, and guide their teams through curiosity, not control.
Learning Objectives:
- Define coachability and explain its importance in leadership
- Distinguish between command-and-control leadership and coaching-based leadership styles
- Apply the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Way Forward) to everyday leadership conversations
- Reflect on their own level of coachability and identify growth opportunities
- Model feedback-friendly leadership behaviors that foster trust and innovation
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Penny Reed
Vice President of Membership and Events
AADOM
Penny Reed is a speaker, coach, and author of the book Growing Your Dental Business. She coaches dentists and their teams to increase their performance and create an office culture where the entire team looks forward to coming to work.
Penny has been coaching dentists and their teams since 1994. She has been named a Leader in Dental Consulting by Dentistry Today, from 2007 to 2017. She is a member of the Speaking Consulting Network, the National Speakers’ Association, and the American Association of Dental Office Managers.
Penny lives in Tennessee with her husband Rob and is the proud mom of Brooke and Savanah.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Dental Office Leadership
This course helps dental office leaders embrace a growth mindset to better lead their teams, adapt to change, and foster a culture of learning and resilience. Through real-world examples and structured modules, participants will learn how to shift fixed thinking, lead by example, and create an environment where both staff and patients thrive.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the difference between growth and fixed mindsets—and why it matters in dentistry
- Apply mindset principles to leadership, team development, and patient care
- Develop reflection and coaching habits that build long-term team adaptability
- Equip your team to handle change with confidence and curiosity
- Integrate mindset strategies into daily operations and team culture
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
From Manager to Leader: Building Influence, Purpose, and Trust
This course equips dental office managers to grow from task-focused doers into influential leaders. It covers the key mindsets and skills needed to motivate teams, handle conflict, inspire innovation, and build a strong office culture that thrives under their guidance.
Learning Objectives:
- Shift from managing tasks to leading with vision and influence
- Understand what drives team performance, purpose, and retention
- Build confidence navigating conflict, coaching others, and encouraging innovation
- Strengthen communication, delegation, and accountability across the team
- Develop leadership habits that support long-term culture and business goals
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Difficult Discussions: Leading with Courage and Clarity
This course empowers dental leaders to handle high-stakes conversations with confidence, empathy, and clarity. Participants will learn how to shift from avoidance to action, using proven strategies to address conflict, provide feedback, and lead conversations that build trust—even when emotions run high.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand why difficult conversations are avoided and the cost of silence
- Apply an 8-step framework to prepare for and lead productive discussions
- Practice active listening and emotional regulation to reduce defensiveness
- Deliver feedback with directness and compassion using Radical Candor principles
- Build habits that support honest, growth-focused communication across the team
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Leading RockSTARS: Managing Personalities and Generations in the Dental Office
This course helps dental leaders manage diverse personalities and generational styles with confidence. By using the STARS framework and generational insights, participants will learn how to lead individuals more effectively, reduce conflict, and build a cohesive, high-performing team.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify and lead the five STARS personality types across varying work situations
- Recognize generational differences and adjust leadership communication accordingly
- Respond to underperformance with empathy and effectiveness
- Personalize leadership strategies to increase engagement and retention
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Time Mastery for Dental Leaders: Automate, Delegate, Eliminate
This course helps dental office managers take control of their time by uncovering hidden inefficiencies, setting clear priorities, and streamlining daily operations. Leaders will learn practical strategies to automate tasks, delegate effectively, and eliminate distractions—so they can focus on what really matters.
Learning Objectives:
- Identify where time is being wasted and refocus on high-value work
- Apply the ADE (Automate, Delegate, Eliminate) method to daily operations
- Set boundaries and systems to reduce interruptions and team dependence
- Build routines that support consistency, productivity, and leadership focus
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
KPI Confidence: Turn Data Into Dental Office Action
This course helps dental leaders make sense of their numbers and turn them into meaningful action. Participants will learn how to track the right KPIs, connect them to team behavior, and lead with clarity—without falling into micromanagement or overwhelm.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand which KPIs matter most and why
- Link key metrics to specific stages of the dental business cycle
- Interpret data to uncover performance gaps and opportunities
- Lead data-driven team conversations that drive accountability and results
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Foundations of Goal Setting: From Intention to Action
This module lays the groundwork for effective goal setting by helping participants understand why goals often fail, how to identify meaningful goals, and how to build realistic action plans
using the SMARTER framework. Through reflection, practical strategies, and mindset alignment, learners will shift from vague intentions to structured, achievable outcomes.Learning Objectives:
● Identify personal or team goals that have repeatedly stalled and understand the underlying causes
● Use the SMARTER framework to build clear, measurable, and motivating goals
● Distinguish between internal and external barriers to progress
● Learn the psychology behind successful goal achievement
● Create a realistic action plan with built-in evaluation and rewardsApproved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
Purpose-Driven Goal Setting for Engagement
This module bridges the gap between personal motivation and organizational success. By helping employees identify their individual “why,” leaders can guide them to set meaningful goals that improve performance, increase satisfaction, and fuel team-wide engagement.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand why disengagement happens and how purpose reconnects people to their work
- Identify individual motivations through conversations, assessments, and reflection
- Distinguish between tasks and goals—and craft meaningful goals aligned with team outcomes
- Apply the SMARTER framework to turn purpose into measurable progress
- Create a personal action plan to integrate purpose-driven goal setting into leadership practice
Approved for .5 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Laura Nelson, FAADOM
Laura Nelson is the award-winning, internationally renowned founder of Front Office Rocks™, a virtual training platform for dental teams that teaches office systems and methods to help practices achieve exceptional customer service.
With her interactive and innovative approach as the leader in Dental Front Office Solutions and Training, Laura has mentored thousands of dentists and dental team members to achieve unprecedented results in growth and empowered dentists and office managers to excel at performance-based hiring. An accomplished recruiting & management coach and highly renowned keynote speaker, she is the best-selling author of Step Away from the Drill, a book that has helped dentists understand & embrace the business side of dentistry.
Laura received her undergraduate degree from Eastern Michigan University in Human Resources and her master’s degree in organizational development from John Hopkins University focusing on leadership development and success. Laura is a member of the National Speakers Association, The Speaking Consulting Network, the Academy of Dental Management Consultants, and a fellow of the American Association of Dental Office Management.
Laura is the recipient of public speaking awards from The Speaking Consulting Network and Dentistry's Got Talent. She has also been recognized as one of Dental Products Report’s Top 25 Women in Dentistry.
Laura lives in Coronado, CA with her amazing husband, Chris. She enjoys traveling & exploring new destinations, fitness activities including Spartan races and also enjoys biking.
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Contains 4 Component(s), Includes Credits
The Dental Assistant Leadership Course is an excellent way to empower dental assistants to take on more responsibility, improve their skills, and create positive changes in the practice.
The Dental Assistant Leadership Course is an excellent way to empower dental assistants to take on more responsibility, improve their skills, and create positive changes in the practice.
Learning Objectives:
- Define Leadership in the Dental Setting
- Understand leadership qualities
- The importance of leadership in a dental team
- Transitioning from a clinical role to a leadership role
Approved for 1 CEU, AADOM is an AGD Pace Approved Provider (can be used towards AADOM Distinctions)
Stacey Singleton, CDA, EFDA, DAADOM
Dental Practice Administrator Harborside Dental and York County Pediatric Dentistry. Stacey resides in southern Maine with her family. She has been in the dental field since 1997. She is a Certified and Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary. She also holds her Business Administration Management Degree from Hesser College and received her Fellowship, Masters & Diplomate with the Academy of Dental Office Management. Stacey has been certified by the National Oral & Maxillofacial Anesthesia Board and is an active member with AADOM where she is President of the Maine Dental Leadership Coalition. Stacey is also a Dental Adjunct Professor at YCCC where she teaches dental programs. She enjoys volunteering within the local community and has a passion for the dental industry where she has been awarded numerous recognitions in office culture and management. She was awarded Dental Office Manager of Distinction in 2023 and was Dental Assistant of the year runner-up in 2016. She has had the opportunity to have published articles, speaking engagements, and consulting guidance with other dental practices. “Find your passion and stay true to its course.”
