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!

APR 28 · VIDEO

Navigating Dentistry with Passion, Positivity, and Purposeful Practice with Dr. Haley Schultz (Part One)

About the Guest: Dr. Haley Schultz is a Michigan-based dentist who graduated from the University of Michigan Dental School in 2024. She is currently in private practice in a rural area of Michigan, where she excels in general dentistry. Dr. Schultz works in a thriving practice with four doctors and is part of a team known for its positive workplace culture. Besides her dental career, Dr. Schultz is a passionate podcaster — the creator of "The Dental Download Podcast," which she started while in her undergraduate studies. She focuses on sharing professional insights, personal growth stories, and other dental-related content to inspire and mentor future dental professionals. Episode Summary: Welcome to an inspiring episode of Beyond Graduation featuring Dr. Haley Schultz. As a dentist based in Michigan, Dr. Schultz shares her journey through dental school to private practice, highlighting the significance of workplace culture and mentorship. The episode kicks off with an exploration of her professional trajectory, revealing how she found her current practice, a beacon of positivity and community, despite the broader discourse of dental staffing shortages. In her conversation, Dr. Schultz elaborates on the patient-centric, holistic approach of her practice, detailing the seamless experience from patient entry to care. Her practice's pillars of care—pain-free, disease-free, and proud to smile— underpin their whole-health dentistry philosophy, which even incorporates elements like myofunctional therapy and interdisciplinary cooperation among dentists. As a budding dentist, Haley discusses her exploratory journey in the varied niches of dentistry, considering where her passions might lead her future career. As a podcaster, Dr. Schultz bridges her love for dentistry and teaching, detailing the inception of "The Dental Download," inspired by her desire to mentor pre-dental students and share her experiences. Touching on social media's impact on professional practice, she transparently discusses managing public input while fostering a positive online and offline presence. Throughout the episode, the focal themes of cultivating gratitude, maintaining an optimistic mindset, and inspiring tangible self-reflection for future successes resonate powerfully. Key Takeaways: Dr. Schultz's practice revolves around a comprehensive approach to dentistry, emphasizing pain-free, disease-free, and a smile patients can be proud of. Her experience underscores the importance of a workplace culture infused with gratitude, positivity, and mentorship—a recipe for personal and professional fulfillment. Dr. Schultz embraces general dentistry while exploring specialized interests, highlighting the value of mentorship and diversity in practice. She emphasizes a balanced approach to social media, protecting energy by focusing on constructive engagement and personal growth.Connect with Us: Savanah Craig, DDS: @savanahcraigdds Ronnetta Sartor, DMD: @dr_sartor Haley Schultz, DMD: @dr.haley.dds The Dental Download Podcast: @dentaldownloadpodcast FutureDentists Beyond Graduation: @futuredentistsbeyondgraduation IgniteDDS: @ignitedds and @ignitedds_coaching A-dec: @adecdental and https://www.a-dec.com/find-a-dealerJoin us in this enlightening discussion on living a dream life beyond graduation through intentionality, passion, and positive collaboration. Keep tuning into Beyond Graduation for more inspiring journeys and insightful lessons.

35 min
APR 14 · VIDEO

Navigating the Best and Worst Advice As New Dentists

About the Hosts: Dr. Savanah Craig is a dental professional with deep expertise in dental practice management. Her career path has been marked by her commitment to advancing the field of dentistry through collaboration and education with her peers and the next generation of dentists. Dr. Ronnetta Sartor is a seasoned dentist who is known for her insightful perspectives on dental practice ownership and management. With extensive experience and multiple collaborations under her belt, Renetta is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and helping others find success in the dental industry. Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of "Beyond Graduation," Drs. Craig and Sartor embark on a comprehensive conversation addressing the best and worst advice they've encountered since embarking on their dental careers. They discuss insights gathered from personal experiences and interactions with other professionals, offering valuable wisdom for both new and established dentists. They dive into strategies for young dentists, focusing on essential pieces of advice that can shape your early career, strengthen patient relationships, and improve leadership skills. Throughout the episode, the hosts reflect on the significance of embracing continuous learning and adapting to industry changes. They share personal anecdotes and lessons learned about managing dental practice dynamics, including patient relationships and the importance of teamwork. Noteworthy discussions include understanding the impact of confidence and the balance required when dealing with associates and patients. Their candid conversation touches on the trials faced by dentists both personally and professionally, with an emphasis on maintaining sustainable practice growth and exploring the nuances of practice ownership. Key Takeaways: Prioritize Team Building: Understanding the importance of teamwork and maintaining positive relationships with your dental staff can significantly enhance patient care and practice efficiency. Learn Continuously: Embrace lifelong learning to stay updated with evolving dental techniques and industry advancements, ensuring your practice stays relevant and effective. Balance Confidence with Humility: While confidence is essential, being open to advice and acknowledging areas for improvement is crucial in personal and professional growth. Evaluate Advice Contextually: Not all advice is one-size-fits-all; carefully consider its relevance to your personal and professional circumstances before adopting it. Adapt to Change: Dental practice landscapes are continuously evolving; flexibility in management style and practice operations can keep your business resilient.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-dealerThis episode provides deep insights into the intricacies of dental practice from navigating early career challenges to achieving a harmonious team dynamic. Take this opportunity to enrich your understanding by tuning into the full episode and stay connected for more inspiring episodes from "Beyond Graduation."

19 min
MAR 31 · 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

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

52
Rating

Clean
Show Website

Beyond Graduation