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!

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
12/09/2025 · VIDEO

How Long Will It Last?

Savanah Craig, DDS and Ronnetta Sartor, DMD are the dynamic duo behind the "Beyond Graduation" podcast. Both are practicing dentists with a passion for guiding new dentists through the turbulent early years of their careers. Dr. Craig, known for her insightful approach to dental practice and keen interest in new dental technologies, teams up with Dr. Sartor, who offers unique perspectives on dental education and practice challenges. Together, they engage in candid conversations about growth, setbacks, and the realities of working in the dental field. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," co-hosts Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor dive deep into the nuanced world of practicing dentistry beyond dental school. Kicking off with a humorous look at their podcasting routine and typical wardrobe choices, they transition into a more serious discussion on why dentists are hard on themselves, especially when facing complications in treatments. With engaging anecdotes and insights, the duo examines the disconnect between the idealistic dental school training and the reality of handling complex patient cases. Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor explore the impact of external factors like medications, patient habits, and evolving medical conditions on dental treatments. They shed light on the common misconception that A+B should always equal C in dentistry, arguing that the mouth's hostile environment creates unforeseen challenges. Their discussion extends to the importance of patient communication, especially in educating them about how lifestyle choices and medications can impact oral health and the longevity of dental work. They stress that while dentists strive to solve problems, understanding limitations and focusing on continuous learning is key. Key Takeaways: Typodont Training vs. Real-Life Practice: Dental school training using typodonts differs greatly from dealing with live patients, where multiple variables affect treatment outcomes. Complex Interplay of Factors: Diet, medication, and other systemic health issues can significantly impact dental work, requiring dentists to stay updated and flexible in treatment planning. Communication & Education: Effective dentist-patient communication is crucial for managing expectations and discussing the impact of health and habits on dental care. Continuous Learning: Emphasizing the importance of ongoing education to keep abreast with new research and treatment methods, ensuring the best patient outcomes. Dentistry is Not In a Vacuum: Treatments do not exist in isolation, and acknowledging this helps manage the professional stress associated with long-term treatment failures.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-dealer Join Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor for a heartfelt exploration into the evolving world of dentistry, armed with humor, experience, and invaluable insights. Don't miss out on this insightful episode and ensure you stay tuned for future installments packed with more guidance and support from the field of dentistry.

21 min
11/25/2025 · VIDEO

Am I A Bad Dentist?

About the Hosts: Savanah Craig, DDS is a dental professional deeply committed to advancing her career and the profession through continuous learning and innovation. She co-hosts the "Beyond Graduation" podcast alongside Dr. Ronnetta Sartor, providing insights for dental professionals navigating the early years of their practice. Ronnetta Sartor, DMD brings a wealth of experience to her role as co-host of "Beyond Graduation," where she offers valuable perspectives on practicing dentistry. After completing a residency, Dr. Sartor has experienced both group and solo practice, contributing to her comprehensive understanding of diverse dental environments. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," hosts Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor explore the dynamic world of dental practice, discussing the contrasting paths of solo versus group practice. Both hosts, passionate about continuing education and skilled in various aspects of dentistry, share personal experiences and insights about finding their unique practice styles. From contemplating the intricacies of complete care dentistry to the nuances of insurance-driven environments, this episode is packed with invaluable insights for new and seasoned dental professionals. Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor delve into the often-debated topic of solo versus group dental practice, shedding light on the benefits and challenges associated with each. They share their personal journeys—Dr. Sartor's transition from a group practice to flying solo and Dr. Craig's reflections on group settings—and how these paths impact their practice style and patient care approach. They emphasize the importance of aligning one's career with personal and professional goals, highlighting how the type of practice can shape a dentist's experience and patient interactions. Key Takeaways: Dentists can thrive in both solo and group practice settings, provided their practice aligns with their personal preferences and career goals. Comprehensive care and bread-and-butter dentistry both hold value, addressing different patient needs and expectations. Navigating patient factors, such as insurance, time, and anxiety, is crucial for successful and fulfilling dental practice. Continuous learning through courses such as Dawson, Pankey and Spear enhances a dentist’s skill set and adaptability to evolving patient needs. Building a network for professional support and collaboration is vital, especially when transitioning between different practice styles.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. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor on this enlightening journey "Beyond Graduation" as they explore the evolving landscape of dentistry. Their conversation offers both practical skills and profound insights, making this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating the early stages of a dental career. Stay tuned for more wisdom and inspiration in future episodes.

19 min
11/11/2025 · VIDEO

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

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor are innovative voices in the dental community, navigating the challenges of life beyond dental school. They share real conversations about their experiences as early-career professionals, offering insights into personal and professional development. Dr. Craig resides in Ohio where her passion for dentistry and community building intertwines. Dr. Sartor practices in South Carolina and is known for her involvement with Ignite DDS coaching. Both doctors are dedicated to mentoring and empowering fellow dentists to forge self-determined futures within the industry. Episode Summary: Join Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor in this episode of "Beyond Graduation" as they share their personal and professional journeys through the "Rose, Bud, Thorn" framework. This engaging discussion brings listeners into the lives of two passionate dentists as they reflect on recent successes, anticipated future developments, and challenges faced along the way. Recorded in May 2025, the episode offers a snapshot of their lives at this point in time, with personal anecdotes highlighting key moments of growth and learning. Throughout the episode, Dr. Sartor shares positive updates about her team's progress with IgniteDDS coaching and her excitement for the summer gardening prospects, despite some unpredictable weather challenges in South Carolina. Dr. Craig celebrates the arrival of a college friend moving to Columbus for a residency and her workplace's progress on establishing partnership documents. The conversation takes a personal turn as they touch on the topic of pet behavior, offering a glimpse into their non-professional lives. Listeners are invited to relate to the shared stories and consider their roses, buds, and thorns in their professional journeys. Key Takeaways: Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is optimistic about the positive changes happening within her team thanks to IgniteDDS coaching, which enhances both the team dynamic and individual growth. Dr. Savanah Craig looks forward to welcoming a college friend to Columbus, reliving the experience of having her back as a roommate and exploring the city together. Despite unpredictable weather patterns affecting South Carolina gardens, Dr. Sartor remains enthusiastic about a successful gardening year. Dr. Craig navigates the unique challenges of pet ownership with humor, sharing personal anecdotes about her cat and his attachment to her husband. Reflection on personal and professional growth is emphasized, encouraging listeners to consider their own "rose, bud, thorn" dynamics.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 this episode to grasp the personal and professional growth journeys of Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor. Their conversation provides relatable insights into handling change, embracing growth, and nurturing self-determined futures within the dental field. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions and journey insights in upcoming episodes of "Beyond Graduation."

8 min
10/28/2025 · VIDEO

Navigating Sick Days and Weather Challenges in Dentistry

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig is a passionate dentist navigating her early career. She is committed to sharing insights about life as a dentist post-graduation, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, understanding patient needs, and managing practice challenges. As a podcast host, she connects with peers to offer guidance and support to young professionals in dentistry. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a dedicated dental practice owner and podcast co-host. With a focus on practical solutions and patient care, she brings valuable experience from running a dental office and overcomes everyday challenges in the field. Her knowledge and anecdotal advice are instrumental to the podcast's mission to support recent dental graduates. Episode Summary: As dentists, Drs. Savanah Craig and Ronnetta Sartor discuss the realities of balancing health and work responsibilities in their profession. In this episode of "Beyond Graduation," they delve into what happens when illness strikes, especially in a demanding profession like dentistry. They address concerns such as the guilt associated with taking sick days and the impact of snow days on their practice operations, providing personal anecdotes to illustrate their points. Dr. Sartor describes a bout of flu that spread through her office, demonstrating the interconnected nature of working environments. Both hosts discuss strategies for managing unexpected absences, emphasizing the importance of having supportive colleagues and adaptable scheduling practices. Dr. Craig shares her experience working in a group practice, highlighting the advantages when illness strikes, while Dr. Sartor talks about the challenges she faces as the sole dentist in her practice. Through their candid conversation, they convey the importance of prioritizing health and candidly discuss the guilt that often accompanies taking time off. This engaging episode offers insights into navigating unplanned interruptions in a dental practice, using real-life examples to provide practical advice. Key Takeaways: The challenges of managing a dental practice when illness affects staff or the practitioner. The benefits of working in a group practice with supportive colleagues available to help during unplanned absences. Both doctors’ personal experiences highlight the importance of communication with patients during scheduling disruptions. Insights into handling patient expectations and rescheduling processes when unforeseen circumstances arise. The practical considerations around severe weather impacts, particularly in regions less accustomed to snow, and its effects on dental practice operations.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-dealerListen to the full episode for a deeper understanding of how Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor navigate challenges in dental practice management and gain insightful advice from their real-life experiences. Stay tuned for more enlightening discussions on "Beyond Graduation."

12 min
10/14/2025 · VIDEO

Navigating Treatment Failures and Dentistry's Unique Challenges

About the Hosts: Dr. Craig is a vibrant, newly graduated dental professional who is making her mark in the world of dentistry. With a keen focus on continuous learning and adapting to challenges in her practice, she shares her journey of navigating the complexities in dental practice during the early years of her career. A seasoned dentist, Dr. Sartor brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the podcast. Known for her insightful perspective on patient communication and dental efficacy, she offers valuable strategies and methodologies for successful dental practice management. Her journey reflects growth and adaptation to various industry challenges. Episode Summary: Welcome to "Beyond Graduation," where Dr. Savanah Craig and Dr. Ronnetta Sartor explore the nuances of early career challenges in dentistry. In this episode, they delve into the critical and often controversial topic of handling treatment failures and rework in dentistry, comparing it to practices in medicine. This engaging dialogue brings forth the intricacies of patient communication, professional accountability, and building a successful practice. Dr. Craig and Dr. Sartor exchange perspectives on how newly graduated dentists can navigate reworks, redo procedures, and treatment failures. They discuss the importance of transparency with patients and how to manage expectations amidst the unpredictable nature of dental treatments. Dr. Sartor reflects on her own maturation process in the dental field, sharing strategic insights into over-communicating with patients to align their expectations better. In examining the broader aspects of dentistry that set it apart from medicine, the episode explores how dental insurance and the perceived value of oral health influence the coverage and expectations surrounding dental procedures. Dr. Craig candidly discusses her sentiments as a new practitioner, grappling with imposter syndrome, and emphasizes the role of ongoing education and honest communication. The episode highlights the shift towards viewing complications as educational opportunities, where the "dentistry failed, not the dentist," fostering a supportive environment for professional growth and patient trust. Key Takeaways: Differences in handling treatment failures and reworks are stark between dentistry and medicine, prompting reflections on accountability and patient communication. Establishing a robust dialogue with patients about current and future dental risks plays a vital role in managing expectations and outcomes. Newly graduated dentists like Dr. Craig explore balancing personal accountability with unpredictable complications in dental procedures. Reflecting on a transition in mindset, from personal blame to recognizing systemic failures in dentistry, enhances learning and professional development. Understanding how patients value dental health compared to general health systems can influence discussions and expectations regarding treatment 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-dealerEmbark on this enlightening exploration of dental practice management beyond graduation by diving into the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions and valuable strategies that promise to enhance both your professional journey and personal growth in the field of dentistry.

21 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

45
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Beyond Graduation