Beyond Graduation

Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor

5.0 (3)
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
UPDATED BIWEEKLY

"Beyond Graduation" brings you real conversations about what is life outside of the four walls of dental school! Join Drs Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor as they navigate the early years of their careers. This podcast invites you to pull up a chair as we share our journey and remind listeners that no one has it all figured out! There is a reason it's called practicing dentistry!

4D AGO · VIDEO

Navigating Mental Health Challenges in Dentistry: Finding Balance

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig is a dedicated professional navigating the multifaceted world of dentistry. With a focus on balancing mental health and dental practice, Savannah co-hosts "Beyond Graduation," delving into real-life challenges and sharing her insights to assist those in the early stages of their dental careers. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a dynamic force in the dental profession, bringing keen insights into managing mental health within the industry. Co-hosting the "Beyond Graduation" podcast, Reneta shares her journey from dental school to practice ownership, empowering peers to find balance and purpose in their careers. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," co-hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor address the vital yet challenging topic of mental health in dentistry. They candidly share personal and professional experiences, emphasizing the significance of finding the right balance between career aspirations and mental well-being. With increasing conversations on burnout within the dental community, the podcast serves as a source of support for practitioners navigating post-graduate life. Drs. Craig and Sartor reflect on the systemic challenges faced by dentists, such as competitive pressures in dental school and the unique burdens of managing a practice. They explore generational differences in how mental health is approached within the profession, highlighting the role of digital reviews and the constant demand for perfection. Both hosts emphasize the importance of mental health as part of a daily practice, akin to honing one's skills in dentistry, and put forth strategies for maintaining emotional resilience and professional satisfaction. Key Takeaways: Dentists face unique mental health challenges, including high levels of burnout and perfectionism cultivated during training and practice. Balancing the roles of healthcare provider and business owner adds layers of stress unique to the dental profession. Building connections and support networks with other dentists can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide emotional backing. Mental health in dentistry requires ongoing attention and practice, much like clinical skills, to ensure personal and professional well-being. Exploring the profession's historical stigma around mental health and advocating for open conversations can lead to healthier practice environments.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerTo gain further insights from this episode, delve into the conversations between Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor as they discuss real-life scenarios and how to tackle mental health in dentistry. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions that support your journey beyond graduation.

25 min
MAR 17 · VIDEO

Rapid Fire Chat of Real Life Dental Scenarios and Solutions

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are both dental professionals navigating their careers after graduation. Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are hosts of the podcast "Beyond Graduation," where they engage in discussions about the challenges and experiences in the early years of dental practice. Both have a commitment to patient care, professional development, and sharing insights to foster growth within the dental community. Episode Summary: In this episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive into rapid-fire dental patient scenarios, exploring how they would handle various situations with professional finesse. The conversation kicks off with the dynamic duo discussing approaches for dealing with older patients inquiring about their experience, unexpected post-treatment evaluations, and handling emergencies during off-hours. Their witty banter and insightful advice form an engaging narrative about the day-to-day interactions faced by new dental practitioners. In the latter part of the episode, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor shift gears to dealing with more complex patient interactions —from challenging cases of disregarded oral hygiene to handling parental disputes over child dental care. Their discussions across these situations are filled with practical tips and empathetic communication strategies, effectively imparting wisdom on patient management while highlighting the importance of teamwork in dental practice. A notable theme throughout is the emphasis on patient education and setting realistic expectations about dental care outcomes. Key Takeaways: Humor can be a useful tool in establishing patient rapport, especially with anxious patients. It's essential to clearly communicate the importance of maintaining dental work, addressing patient misconceptions about treatments. Handling emergencies promptly is a critical part of dental practice, even if it means addressing issues outside regular hours. Effective communication is necessary when dealing with divorced parents concerning treatment decisions for their children. Team dynamics are crucial, and disputes should be managed to not impact patient care.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerListeners are encouraged to delve into this thought-provoking episode, rich with practical insights and authentic conversations. Stay tuned for more educational content from "Beyond Graduation," where Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor continue to explore new avenues in dentistry and share the journey of life after graduation.

18 min
MAR 3 · VIDEO

Navigating Complex Dental Care for Special Needs and Elderly Patients

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are both emerging professionals in the field of dentistry, navigating the complexities of early careers in dental practice. Dr. Craig is known for her work in both South Carolina and Ohio, specifically working with special needs patients and providing IV sedation procedures. Dr. Sartor, based in South Carolina, has a wealth of experience in handling older populations with complex medical histories and special needs patients. Both have been trained extensively in residencies focusing on diverse dental care needs. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor delve into the intricate challenges faced by dental practitioners who work with complex patient cases. The episode explores the ethical considerations and logistical dilemmas arising when treating elderly, special needs, or medically compromised patients. Both hosts share their personal experiences and discuss their approaches to decision-making, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with medical professionals and ethical boundaries in patient care. This episode explores the sensitive and nuanced dynamics of dental practice, especially for those just starting in the field. Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor illustrate the emotional and professional challenges faced while balancing patient needs and operating within limitations, such as OR availability and insurance complications. With themes of compassion, professional integrity, and the importance of continuous learning, the episode not only informs but also inspires practitioners at different stages of their careers. Key Takeaways: Dentists often face ethical dilemmas when treating patients with complex medical or special needs. Collaboration with medical professionals is crucial in providing safe and effective care. Patient safety should always be prioritized, even at the risk of turning away business or referring to specialists. Real-world practice involves acknowledging and working within certain limitations, such as insurance issues and OR availability. Continuous learning and setting realistic expectations are key components for managing diverse patient needs.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerWe invite you to listen to the full episode to dive deeper into the nuanced conversations around special needs dentistry and the ethical decision-making process for early-career dental professionals. Stay tuned for more enlightening content on "Beyond Graduation."

19 min
FEB 17 · VIDEO

Navigating Dentistry's Challenges: From Financial Struggles to Patient Misunderstandings

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig is a general dentist who is passionate about dental health and educating patients on their oral care. She has been making strides in the dental community with her dynamic approach to practice and dedication to evolving her methods. Dr. Craig brings a fresh perspective on dentistry and its complex challenges, particularly for new dental graduates navigating the professional landscape. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is also a practicing general dentist with a keen interest in the multifaceted nature of dental care. Her experience as both an associate and a practice owner equips her with a unique understanding of the financial and clinical aspects of dentistry. Dr. Sartor advocates for innovations in dental practices, including patient education and preventive care, ensuring that both patient and practice thrive. Episode Summary: Join Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor in this enlightening episode of "Beyond Graduation," where they delve into the perplexing world of dentistry post-education. They discuss the unexpected complexities in dental career paths, from the variety of ways dentists can practice to the financial nuances that contradict many public perceptions. As recent graduates find their way in the profession, the duo explores the varying paths within dentistry and the skills necessary to succeed beyond the classroom. The conversation highlights the misconceptions about dentists' roles and compensation structures, illustrating how the dynamics between production, collections, and patient care create a unique professional environment. With candid discussions about financial realities, such as student loans and practice ownership challenges, the episode offers insightful advice for budding dentists. Through relatable analogies and personal anecdotes, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor illustrate the importance of communication, preventive care, and understanding the broader impacts of oral health on the body. Key Takeaways: Dentistry offers a myriad of career paths and practice methods, each with unique challenges. Misconceptions exist about the dentist's role and their financial stability due to evolving reimbursement models and student debt. Financial compensation in dentistry hinges on complex factors like production, collections, and insurance intricacies. Preventive care is crucial, as it aligns dental health with overall health and can mitigate costly emergencies. Effective patient communication is essential for successful treatment planning and health outcomes.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerDive deeper into the world of post-graduate dentistry by tuning into this episode where Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor share invaluable insights for recent graduates. Stay tuned for more engaging discussions and expert advice on the evolving landscape of dental careers.

20 min
FEB 3 · VIDEO

Navigating Dental Branding: Challenges and Strategies for New Practices

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig is a practicing dentist deeply engaged in conversations about the practicalities of running a dental practice post-graduation. With a focus on carving out a successful career in dentistry, Dr. Craig emphasizes patient relationships and practice management. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is also a dedicated dentist and a semi-new practice owner facing the challenges of practice branding and marketing. Known for her enthusiasm in connecting with patients, she explores innovative strategies to enhance dental practice visibility and patient relations. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor delve into the intricacies of dental practice branding and the evolving landscape of patient engagement. Understanding the power of marketing in dentistry, they discuss the blend of traditional in-person community involvement and modern digital strategies necessary to thrive in this competitive field. Navigating through personal experiences and industry insights, Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor shed light on the importance of building a strong presence both in the local community and online. They touch upon the significance of leveraging tools like SEO and social media, while also highlighting the challenges independent practices face compared to corporate dental entities. Their conversation evolves into a discussion about internal mottos such as "unreasonable hospitality," keeping patients informed, and weaving teamwork into the practice's fabric to deliver exceptional patient experiences. Key Takeaways: Marketing and patient relations are crucial for growing a dental practice, especially in today's digital world. Building a recognizable brand involves both strong community ties and an online presence. There is a disparity in marketing power between independent practices and corporate dental firms. SEO is a double-edged sword, bringing both opportunities and challenges in patient expectations. Leadership in a dental practice involves embracing roles that push comfort zones and promote visibility.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerTune in to the full episode to explore the dynamic conversation on effectively managing dental practice branding and embracing innovative patient engagement strategies. Stay connected for more insightful episodes from "Beyond Graduation," where practical discussions forge a path for success in the dental field post-graduation.

20 min
JAN 20 · VIDEO

Navigating Debt and Balance: Life After Dental School

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are the engaging hosts of "Beyond Graduation." Both are experienced dentists with valuable insights into the intersection of professional growth and personal finance in the dental industry. Dr. Savanah Craig continually explores the nuances of balancing student debt with career advancement, while Dr. Ronnetta Sartor brings her expertise as a practice owner and her perspective on financial management and wellness. Together, they foster discussions that resonate with early-career dentists navigating post-graduation challenges. Episode Summary: In this episode of "Beyond Graduation," Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor delve into the often-taboo topic of finance, focusing on understanding and managing student loans, debt, and balancing financial obligations while pursuing a fulfilling career in dentistry. Their candid conversation touches upon the personal experiences of handling student loans, the emotional burden of debt, and the strategic financial decisions that come with owning a dental practice. Dr. Sartor likens student loans to "the ex that you want to forget about," highlighting the ongoing challenge of coming to terms with financial commitments made in the past. The discussion emphasizes the importance of reevaluating financial priorities, understanding the difference between good and bad debt, and the necessity of having a robust financial plan. The hosts discuss influential financial philosophies, mentioning Ramit Sethi's approach of living a "rich life" and the concept of "dying with zero," advocating for a balanced life that doesn't sacrifice personal happiness for financial gain. They highlight the critical role of professional financial advisors in guiding new dentists through the complexities of managing debt while building a practice. Key Takeaways: Understanding student loans as a persistent yet manageable financial element in a dentist's journey. The significance of distinguishing between good debt and bad debt while building a practice. Ramit Sethi's financial philosophy: spend extravagantly on what you love, and cut costs mercilessly on what you don't. Balancing professional ambitions, like owning a practice, with personal wellbeing and lifestyle goals. The importance of having professional financial guidance to prevent lifestyle creep and achieve long-term financial stability.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerTune into the full episode to explore the unique financial journeys of Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor as they offer advice and insights for new dentists facing similar challenges. Stay connected for more enlightening discussions ahead in the "Beyond Graduation" series.

20 min
JAN 6 · VIDEO

Navigating Life's Challenges: Rose, Bud, Thorn Reflections (August 2025)

About the Hosts: Savanah Craig, DDS and Ronnetta Sartor, DMD are both practicing dentists who have transitioned from dental school graduates to real-world practitioners. They have carved out their paths in the field of dentistry and share their experiences, insights, and challenges as newly minted dental professionals. Their podcast, "Beyond Graduation," is a platform where they navigate early career challenges and successes and engage in thoughtful discussions about life as emerging dental practitioners. Episode Summary: In this lively episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor dive into their current professional and personal milestones as they share their latest experiences in their dental careers. Released in early August 2025, the episode kicks off with each doctor sharing their "Rose, Bud, and Thorn" — a reflective exercise they utilize to express their recent achievements, aspirations, and challenges. This practice not only frames their ongoing journey in dentistry but also echoes the broader theme of growth and adaptation that guides "Beyond Graduation." Throughout the episode, Dr. Ronnetta Sartor shares the exciting news about the third anniversary of her dental practice, marking a significant milestone in her career. Meanwhile, Dr. Savanah Craig reflects on a recent trip to Seattle, a celebratory journey with lifelong friends. As they discuss their professional paths, they both delve into the importance of implementing effective team processes and systems and highlight the to-be-completed practice buy-in process that Dr. Craig is eagerly anticipating. They wrap up their conversation by addressing the thorny challenges they face, such as enhancing personal marketing efforts and achieving a well-balanced routine amid their busy schedules. These discussions, coupled with valuable insights and anecdotes, make for an engaging and informative episode that resonates with aspiring and current dental professionals. Key Takeaways: The "Rose, Bud, and Thorn" technique is an insightful method for reflection on professional achievements, personal growth, and current challenges. Celebrating a three-year practice anniversary is a significant milestone, symbolizing perseverance and development in a dental career. Building effective processes and systems within a dental office is crucial for team efficiency and growth. Overcoming challenges such as personal marketing and work-life balance can enhance professional capability and personal well-being. Engaging with lifelong friendships and supportive networks can provide crucial encouragement and joy on the journey beyond graduation.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerFor an engaging and enriching dive into the professional journeys of Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, tune into the full episode of "Beyond Graduation." Stay connected for more insightful discussions and experiences shared by emerging leaders in the field of dentistry

5 min
12/16/2025 · VIDEO

Goal Setting and Flexibility for a Balanced 2026

About the Hosts: Savanah Craig, DDS and Ronnetta Sartor, DMD are dynamic dental professionals navigating their careers beyond graduation. Dr. Savanah Craig is known for her enthusiasm in continuous learning and development within dentistry, while Dr. Ronnetta Sartor has established herself with her own practice and focus on growth in practice ownership. Both dentists provide genuine insights into the challenges and triumphs faced in the early years of their careers, offering relatable experiences to young professionals in dentistry. Episode Summary: In this episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor engage in an enlightening discussion on goal-setting and planning for the upcoming year, 2026. Recorded in October 2025, they explore both personal and professional strategies for success as the holiday season approaches. This conversation provides listeners with an in-depth reflection on past achievements and areas of growth while emphasizing the importance of flexibility in goal setting for the upcoming year. Dr. Sartor shares her systematic approach to planning her office and personal life, highlighting the revelation that flexibility is just as crucial as intention. Meanwhile, Dr. Craig discusses her journey towards embracing spontaneity after her realization of overcommitment through continuing education courses. Both dentists highlight how leaving room for new opportunities can often lead to unexpected career growth and personal enrichment. Listeners will find valuable insights on maintaining balance and the benefits of intentional, flexible goal setting as they transition into the new year. Key Takeaways: Planning and goal setting require reflection on past achievements, evaluation of short-term and long-term goals, and the flexibility to adapt to unexpected opportunities. Co-hosts Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor emphasize the importance of setting intentional goals that allow for personal and professional growth without unnecessary pressure. Both discuss the significance of work-life balance and provide strategies for effective time management, resonating particularly with dental professionals in early practice stages. They echo the need for periodically reviewing and adjusting goals to ensure continued progress and avoid stagnation. Dr. Craig introduces the concept of reducing rigid planning to maximize present experiences and seize new career advancements.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation FutureDentists: @futuredentists IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerJoin Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor on this thought-provoking episode of "Beyond Graduation" where they delve deep into the nuances of professional growth and planning. Subscribe and stay informed for more enriching discussions that resonate with professionals.

17 min

5

out of 5

3 Ratings

"Beyond Graduation" brings you real conversations about what is life outside of the four walls of dental school! Join Drs Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor as they navigate the early years of their careers. This podcast invites you to pull up a chair as we share our journey and remind listeners that no one has it all figured out! There is a reason it's called practicing dentistry!

Creator

Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor
Years Active

2024 - 2026
Episodes

50
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Beyond Graduation