Dental Entrepreneur Woman - Autumn 2023 by Dental Entrepreneur Media

Autumn 2023

Leveraging Virtual Teams While Changing Lives and Making A Global Impact Dr. Nikki Green

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Autumn 2023 Editor and Publisher Anne M. Duffy, RDH Assistant Editor

Charter Sponsors A-dec Crest Mary Fisher-Day

Clare Yeo Project Manager Tari Sixpence Sales & PR Officer Nyasha Maripakwenda Creative Consultant Beth Linesch Design and Layout Brian Rummel Production [CURAtive] James B. Kennedy Web Management Bhakti Kulmala Autumn Contributors Katherine Eitel Belt Kristine Berry Marni Blythe Sarah Cottingham Sima Yakoby Epstein Dr. Nikki Green Janet Hagerman Marlyce James JoAn Majors Sarah Ruberg

Inspired Hygiene Patterson D5 Patterson Fuse Shofu Advisory Board Emeritus Linda Miles Advisors to the Board Victoria Peterson Katherine Eitel-Belt Board Dr. Brittany Bergeron Kristie Boltz Deborah Carrier Dr. Hazel Glasper Vanessa Emerson Dee Fisher Suzanne Kump JoAn Majors Joanna Scott Samantha J Strain Beverly Wilburn Junior Board Christie Bailey Minal Sampat

Fall is a season of abundance. This is the time of year when you sit right between the culmination of your year’s efforts and the beginning of new goals, aspirations, and accomplishments. As you prepare to reap the rewards of your year’s labor – it’s important to reflect on the key elements that supported and nurtured your growth throughout the year. Ramping up to the 5th Annual DeW Life Retreat, this Fall issue is a poignant reminder of the support, love, wisdom, and camaraderie that happens when you surround yourself with DeWs. Our cover author, Dr. Nikki Green, shares the importance of finding the right team members to support you as an entrepreneur, mom, wife, and woman. It is the crucial ingredient to achieving work-life balance, one where your career doesn’t interfere with precious moments, but provides for it. Sarah Woods discusses the tale of David and Goliath, and how as women, entrepreneurs, and dental professionals, we too have the inner strength to slay our giants, even if we’re treading a path where we’re not the conventional fit. Kristine Berry has a raw, heart-to-heart with us about the importance of inclusivity that encompasses all women, regardless of race or gender identity. She examines the dental arena through the lens of historical white male attitudes, actions, and ways of being as to provide us with awareness and foresight into making our industry a more welcoming place. On the topic of ethics, Janet Hagerman shares the zigs and zags of her entrepreneurial journey. These twists and turns, though confusing at times, are the cornerstone of a truly successful entrepreneur in pursuit of ethical evolution. JoAn Majors peels back the layers of human compassion – reminding us why empathy needs to remain at the center of everything we do, as dental professionals and entrepreneurs. It was through her first-hand experience with paralysis that she encountered empathy at its purest – which led to an all-encompassing journey of healing. Dr. Sima Yakoby Epstein can vouch for that. Her article is an inspirational account of her “why,” and how the desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others is the fuel to her fire. Every contributor to this issue encapsulates what we DeWs stand for – as a group of entrepreneurs, dental professionals, and women. It is this sort of mindfulness that guides and elevates us into the leaders we’re meant to be. Marni Blythe knows this intimately, as she shares the 5-step process to use mindfulness principles as female entrepreneurs in dentistry.

Editorial Office 8334 Pineville Matthews Rd Ste. 103-201 Charlotte, NC 28226 704-953-0261 Fax 704-847-3315 anneduffy@dew.life

From Our DeW Dishes, Sarah Cottingham, Sarah Ruberg, and Marlyce James, as they share a behind-the-scenes look into their go-getter spirits, Katherine Eitel Belt’s inspirational call for you to take on the biggest stages of the world… I hope this issue shows you what you’re capable of when you have the support you need, the inspiration you desire, and the DeW crew behind your back as you steer the ship of impact into deeper and wider waters.

Guidelines go to dew.life

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Autumn 2023 DeWers 6

Leveraging Virtual Teams While Changing Lives and Making A Global Impact Dr. Nikki Green

DeW Dish 11 Marlyce James, MSEd, RDH, CDA 12 Sarah Cottingham 13 Sarah Ruberg

22 Messages That Move People: Three Ways Dental 24 Professionals Can Use Speaking Skills to Build Their Practice and Advance Their Careers Katherine Eitel Belt

Resilience 28 From Awareness to Action: White Females Tackling Racism in Oral Healthcare Kristine Berry

Living Your Strengths

Success

16 My Journey to DSO “Fractional” CHO (Chief Hygiene Officer)

Janet Hagerman

20 Empathy Unleashed: Exploring the Impact of Soft Skills and Meaningful Connections on Patient Care Outcomes JoAn Majors

A Journey of Hope and Healing: From Orthodontic Patient to Empowered Entrepreneur Sima Yakoby Epstein, DMD

Mindful Change Management: Mastering the Art of Adaptability as a Female Importance of HumanCentered Lawyering Marni Blythe

DeWERS

DENTIST, MOM, WIFE, ENTREPRENEUR: WHO AM I? AND WHO HELPS ME DO ALL THAT I DO?

“W

hat hat should I wear today?” I love it when that’s one of the biggest decisions I have to make for the day. That means I’m in Mexico, and the day’s activities are going to involve a mix of adventure, sun, food, rest, water, and waves. And I have to wear the right hat that will endure the day yet also look good on my social media feed! Can I get an amen? It’s a GOOD DAY when this is the pivotal decision!

That is the reality that shows up most often on my social media feeds; a life that is less hectic, less demanding, and a lot more carefree. But for anyone reading this, this is NOT our everyday! The “hats” we wear throughout our day change by the hour, if not by the minute.

By Dr. Nikki Green

suffering because truly “Who can do it all?” My life as a Dental Entrepreneur did not start on an easy street. At the age of 30, I was a young Dentist in the middle of a divorce, mom to a 4-year-old, moving to a new city, and I had the entrepreneurial “bug” to go ahead and purchase a practice in the middle of the chaos of my changing life. After all, that’s what we do, right? ”Jump out of the airplane and build the parachute on the way down!”

THE BEGINNING So in December 2007 (yes, approximately 9 months before the economic crash of 2008), I borrowed the closing cost money from my mother (a lifelong nurse who basically lent me an empty credit card) and took out a 7 digit loan, still in the middle of that divorce, figuring out where my son would go to preschool, and embarked on my Dental Entrepreneurial journey. And boy, am I glad I did!

From managing Amazon orders so the family doesn’t go without dishwasher detergent for the fourth straight day in a row, to making a pivotal hiring decision for the practice that you just pray is the right one this time, to prioritizing date night with your husband so you don’t become disconnected again like you did last year. The “hats” just keep stacking on.

THE MESSY MIDDLE

This was me and my reality for 15+ years! The hats kept stacking, but the results I was getting in each area were

From 2008 through 2021, I was at the helm of a busy growing practice in the heart of Fort Worth, Texas, and I

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can truly say it has been a labor of love. I have worked with wonderful coaches – Gary Takacs, Productive Dentist Academy, Spear Education, and Pankey Institute, just to name a few! In 2010, I became engaged and later married my husband, Dr. Bob Leedy, who owns and operates his own busy growing practice in Abilene, Texas. In case you’re not familiar, that is 120 miles apart from each other! Together in that time, we have employed twelve different doctors, brought on a 50/50 partner only to go through a “business divorce” one year later, built out brand new facilities in both locations, raised and mentored kids and adult children, and most of that time we spent attempting to manage all of that ourselves. Around 2018, we both realized we had hit our ceiling. We were never going to create self-managing teams, get the time together that we both so desperately wanted (remember, we live and work 120 miles away from each other), and ultimately enjoy the life we had worked so hard to create. We began searching for ways to engage, empower, and elevate those around us so we could begin to “buy our time back!”

THE END (YEAH RIGHT, MORE LIKE THE NEW BEGINNING!)

off per year to spend together, spend time with kids and grandkids, work on Real Estate projects, spend time with aging parents, and simply live a life outside of our Dental practices. Ten years ago, this was something I simply could have never imagined! Now back to the original question – How (or maybe a better question) WHO helps us DO what we DO! A full TEAM of people that we have invested in, empowered, and elevated through the years! We have strong Doctors in our practices, empowered Leadership teams, and Team Leaders who operate within our Core Values and move the businesses forward even in our absence. One of our well-kept secrets is our remote employees through SupportDDS that take mundane tasks off our plates so we, and those within our organizations, can work on more important items that truly “move the needle” in our businesses. We have SupportDDS employees within the practice who have the daily task of sitting on the phone with insurance companies so that our patient-facing team deals with higher-level tasks. Our SupportDDS team runs and manages our Recare system effectively and efficiently; freeing up our in-office team for greater impact opportunities.

February 2023, we spent 18 straight days in our home in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico. We now take 12 weeks

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LEVERAGING VIRTUAL TEAMS WHILE CHANGING LIVES AND MAKING A GLOBAL IMPACT When looking for the right team of people to support you, you’ll want someone who believes business should be about more than just the bottom line. Finding someone who is committed to improving the lives of your team members while making a global impact is key. Commitment to a purpose-driven business has been a key factor in SupportDDS’s journey. They focus on people and their impact, creating a company culture that not only attracts talented individuals eager to work there but also partners with clients who believe in their vision. Hiring the right team is about striking a balance between increased efficiency and reduced operational costs. But on a deeper level, it’s about finding the right people to work WITH you. When you have a remote team, it is crucial to have them feel like an effortless extension of their offices, like they’re part of the team. How can we achieve that when your team members might be continents away? It’s why SupportDDS’ employees gain employment and benefits that empower them to provide for themselves and their families. Their teams also operate in an environment in which they are eager to come and work every day. They have a Workplace Wellness department that curates activities, promoting positive mental and physical well-being. I can safely say that without the support of my team members from SupportDDS, I would not be where I am today. No precious time spent with family. As for jetting off to Mexico to soak in the sun? Forget about it.

A TEAM TO HELPS YOU STAY FOCUSED ON WHAT’S IMPORTANT I have been utilizing a Remote Executive Assistant through Support DDS since April 2022. I have seen first-hand the amount of relief daily that a remote EA can provide. The major one is freeing up my time so I, too, can run a business, keep up with daily household demands, perform my duties on multiple professional and faith-centered boards, direct operations for 2 busy dental practices located 120 miles apart, and “keep all the balls juggling in the air” in general. (I am sure many of you can relate to that last statement!) My EA, Chido, scans my email daily for important things I miss in the course of a day doing dentistry, she manages my home bills (I swear I would have a 300 credit score if she wasn’t making sure my bills get paid on time), she helps me remember a growing family of birthdays

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and special events, plans my travel, and stays in daily communication with me about things on my calendar and upcoming commitments that I might otherwise forget. One of my numerous coaches, Dan Sullivan, has coauthored a book “Who Not How,” and that phrase is the essence of making all the many “hats” of our lives work. We buy back our time by finding the Who’s in our lives that free us up to focus on what’s important ... whatever “more important” is for you!

About the author: Dr. Nikki Green has been providing patients with exceptional comprehensive and cosmetic dental care since 2003. A West Texas native, Dr. Green has become a member of the Spear Faculty Club, which is an exclusive group of dentists who have completed the Frank Spear Mastery Continuum, and now assist and mentor other doctors during the Spear Education process. Dr. Green has honed her skills in the detection and prevention of dental disease, and the treatment of simple and complex occlusal disorders, as well as enhanced her ability to provide her patients with a beautiful and natural-looking smile.

DeW Dish 10

MARLYCE JAMES, MSED, RDH, CDA

Occupation: Education and Leadership Specialist IG: @the_mar_dh

WHAT DO YOU DO TO TURN AROUND A BAD DAY? I recently learned how to begin my day with an “I get to” mentality instead of an “I have to” attitude. This has been a major step toward positive thinking for me. If I come across distractions, I take the time to focus on gratitude and realize it is just a bad moment, not a bad day!

WHAT “DEW’ LEADERS DO? In my eyes, “DeW” leaders empower, mentor, inspire, motivate, connect, innovate, persevere… & the list goes on! We “DeW” all the things to create a positive impact for those around us and for the next generation of “DeWs!”

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM VACATION?

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? I have recently completed my time as a Director/Educator of Dental Hygiene & am now an Education and Leadership Specialist! Along with this, I have taken on contracts as a Dental Hygiene Consultant and Higher Education Consultant. I am focusing on enjoying the DeW Life to the fullest as I get to choose projects that fulfill my passion.

WHO HAS BEEN THE MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMAN IN YOUR LIFE? The most influential woman in my life has been myself. Through my experiences, growth, and determination, I’ve learned to navigate challenges and discover my own strengths. My journey has been shaped by self-discovery and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

HOW DO YOU MEASURE YOUR SUCCESS? I measure my success by the impact I have on the next generation, personally and/or professionally. Success, for me, is positive changes I can bring to those around me through education, mentorship, connections, and opportunities contributing to personal and professional growth.

My “DeW-D” and I take a dream vacation every year. Our dream vacations are rest & relaxation on a Caribbean island; a different island every time. Once we’ve enjoyed every Caribbean island, we will expand our travel to Europe & Asia, but there must be a beach involved!

WHAT IS FIRST ON YOUR DENTAL BUCKET LIST? Up first on my dental bucket list is becoming a contributor to the first Doctor of Dental Hygiene Practice (DDHP) or Doctor of Philosophy in Dental Hygiene (PhD) program. Advanced education is my passion and purpose & being a part of this initiative would fulfill my ultimate dental bucket list item!

WHAT DOES BALANCE LOOK LIKE? Balance has been a challenge for me throughout my career. Nowadays, balance for me means doing what I want when I want while still getting the work done, quality time with my family/friends, and fitting in self-care! Becoming a DeW & being married to DeW-D has been the best for my work/life balance!

WHAT IS THE BEST GIFT YOU EVER RECEIVED? My favorite gift is usually time – the most valuable and meaningful love language! This is the best way to truly connect and share experiences, personally and professionally. One of my goals in the next year is to remember that “it is not about having time, it is about making time!”

SARAH COTTINGHAM

Consultant, Coach, Dental Hygienist, Speaker incitoenterprises.com IG: Sarah_Cottingham

lives, even in generations beyond this one, drives my pursuit of success. Maintaining integrity and aligning actions with my values are non-negotiable. Supporting others in their joyful, unique life paths is a fundamental aspect of my journey.

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME IN YOUR CAREER?

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? Being part of people’s transformative journeys is what truly fulfills me. Witnessing personal and professional growth in clients and their teams, as they maximize their potential, fills my heart. Seeing them experience more joy, passion, and fearlessness in both their work and personal lives due to our collaboration is incredibly rewarding. Being a catalyst for positive change and contributing to their overall well-being drives my passion for consulting, making every day meaningful and significant

HOW DO YOU MEASURE SUCCESS? Measuring success is a soulful journey, embracing the starting point as it is and seeing the desired outcome out in the future. It’s not just about reaching a specific destination; it’s cherishing vibrant moments and growth along the way. Staying true to myself amidst challenges is my guiding light, having emerged from my own period of darkness. Now, I find joy, love, and light in every moment, focusing on what emotionally fills me. As a professional, I rely on various data points (KPIs, numbers, statistics) and milestones to gauge progress, acknowledging the smallest achievements that contribute to my goals. Recently, I have also tapped into my intuitive energy, guiding me toward success markers and my true path. Genuine success extends beyond me; it’s about profoundly impacting others, and inspiring their growth and expansion. Making a positive difference in others’

Throughout my career, there have been many. One of the most transformational is refining my communication and connection skills with others. With maturity came selfawareness. As a young woman committed to making a difference, my assertiveness may have had an impact to inadvertently overpower people, leaving them feeling unheard, unappreciated, and undervalued. Which is the exact opposite of what I am about. For decades I’ve worked diligently to develop a more empathetic and authentic approach, empowering those around me to shine. In the early stages of my career, I received feedback that I was great at what I did, but there were times when I came across as a “bull in a china shop” and was perceived as intimidating. Taking this feedback to heart, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement, honing my ability to communicate effectively while respecting the perspectives and contributions of others. Through selfawareness and learning, I’ve become more collaborative and inclusive-minded, valuing open dialogue, and embracing diverse ideas. By encouraging an environment where everyone’s voices are heard and respected, I’ve witnessed countless positive transformations because of working on my own opportunities first! This has been a transformative experience, not only for my career but also for my personal growth. Now, I take pride in being someone who uplifts and supports others, creating a collaborative atmosphere where everyone can thrive and contribute their best. It has been a journey of growth, one that has undoubtedly opened more doors for years to come.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO TURN AROUND A BAD DAY? I embrace gratitude wholeheartedly. I believe that every experience, both positive and challenging, serves a purpose in my life, and I honor each of them. Starting my day with a morning routine focused on gratitude, movement, and immersive cold plunging helps center me in a positive mindset, regardless of what the day may bring. This practice allows me to appreciate all aspects of my life and approach challenges with a constructive outlook, turning a bad day into an opportunity for growth and learning.

SARAH RUBERG

Business Owner www.ourthrivetribe.co

WHAT IS YOUR GUILTY PLEASURE? I love celebrity gossip. My mom used to get all the gossip magazines when we would go grocery shopping and I remember reading them along side her. So, in addition to being a guilty pleasure it is also a way that I can still feel connected to my mom.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE INDOOR/OUTDOOR ACTIVITY? I LOVE being outdoors (weather permitting, I do live in Florida!). I think kayaking is my favorite though. Gliding along with my hand or foot dipped in the water is heaven. Even if I do come in contact with a gator or two.

WHAT FAMOUS PERSON LIVING OR DEAD WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE LUNCH WITH AND WHAT WOULD YOU ASK THEM?

WHAT IS THE BEST PART OF YOUR JOB? That I get to build my company based on my core values and not someone else’s.

HOW DO YOU MEASURE YOUR SUCCESS? I measure my success by the genuine connections I foster and the impact I create in the dental and DSO space. It’s not just about the numbers or revenue for me; it’s about making a real difference. When I see dental practices and DSOs thrive through the strategies we’ve developed, or when I witness vendors effectively engaging with their target audience on platforms like LinkedIn, I feel accomplished. Success for me is a blend of personal growth and the growth of my clients.

WHAT OBSTACLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME IN YOUR CAREER? I think the biggest obstacle I have overcome is not believing in myself. I had such a limiting belief that I could only be an intrapreneur… never an entrepreneur. To be honest, entering into a career in the DSO space is really what opened my eyes. Watching clinicians with just as little business knowledge as myself, take a huge leap into entrepreneurship lit a fire under me and helped me to see that I can in fact and now have done it!

I would love to sit down with Stevie Nicks. She just seems like such a down to earth person and incredibly magical. I imagine she would just say the most profound things and I would ask her what lessons in life she has learned that have had the most impact on her life.

THEY ARE PLAYING YOUR THEME SONG AS YOU WALK ON STAGE. NAME THAT TUNE! Eye of the Tiger, baby!

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM VACATION? The time of year would be fall and somewhere mountainous with crystal clear lakes. I would love to unplug from everything and enjoy champagne while admiring the sounds of nature.

WHAT DOES BALANCE LOOK LIKE? I grew up watching my dad eat, sleep, and breathe the hustle mentality so it runs rampant through my veins. And to be honest, I love it. But at the same time I recognize that balance is important not only for myself but for the important relationships I have in my life. Balance to me is a feeling, a feeling of permission and comfortability to step away from my work and live my life (and get a facial!).

DeWERS

Who, Wear, When

AADOM Beverly Wilburn, Shelly Otte, Laura Nelson, & Jannelle Storck DeW Meetup at Dental Festival

Jannelle Storck, Laura Nelson & Megan Lohman

Mary Fisher Day & Dilaine Gloege

DSWorld MGM Vegas Erania Brackett & Andrea Frohning

Joanne Miles & Shelly Otte - Congrats Joanne! DSWorld MGM Vegas Speaker's Room

DSWorld MGM Vegas

DeW meetup at Corient Charlotte office

WinDSO Leaders

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DeWs just want to have fun!

Kristie Boltz Hostess with the mostest! DeW GoodFund CAF

DeWs celebrating Mr and Mrs Hoover

80's Night at ADMC Margy Schaller and Susan Cotton

Howard Classmates at the Women’s keynote & panel at SmileCon

Sarah Cottingham & Brie Richardson

vVARDIS at DSWorld MGM Vegas

Dr. Sharon Parsons receiving the Joseph P. Crowly Distinguished Dentist Award with Joanna Scott

DeW leaders supporting DeWds

DeW Meetup at SmileCon

Jill Rethman OSU Classmate @ DSWorld

LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS

MY JOURNEY TO DSO “FRACTIONAL” CHO (CHIEF HYGIENE OFFICER)

t was the first day at my new job. Of course, I’d had new jobs before, as a clinically practicing dental hygienist. I had also spent years as a dental hygiene and full practice consultant. I was no stranger to new situations. I accepted this job as the Director of Dental Hygiene for a large (100+practice) DSO (Dental Support Organization). Yikes – a DSO, really? I was dubious and overwhelmed. At this time, the concept of “onboarding” did not exist. So, there I was, at the corporate headquarters, wondering what to do with myself. I don’t think the company knew what to do with me either. They just knew they needed hygiene help. And I felt like a deer in the headlights, getting a drink from a firehose! My career started out as a junior in college. I already had completed two years of general studies at Florida State University. Having decided on a career in Dental Hygiene, I wanted a school that would offer me a bachelor’s degree after I completed another two years of hygiene curriculum. The Medical College of Georgia was my answer with its new, three-year-old, hygiene program. I was one of a total of 13 students. We all graduated and passed our boards. I was very lucky to land a great first job. It was in the most prestigious suburb of Atlanta, Buckhead, where the governor’s mansion is located. I was also lucky to have,

By Janet Hagerman

as my dentist, the chairman of the prestigious Atlanta Hinman Conference. It was here that I garnered the chairside experiences that: • Prompted my interest in, and lifelong quest for, effective communication soft skills. • Provided the content for my first article, published in the (now extinct) Journal of American Dental Hygiene. I went on to practice clinically in a variety of dental practices. I hated the boredom of prophys all day. I loved the extremes. • I loved Perio and would rather do SRPs all day long. At one practice, I enjoyed a remarkable hygiene assistant, and we developed a remarkable periodontal program. • Utterly surprising, I also loved pedo. Answering the request for temporary help from a friend who was a pediatric dentist, I said, “OK, but only for a few days, because there is no way I’m working with kids all day!” Well, days turned into a few years. Clinically pedo prophies are a snap, nothing challenging there. What I was shocked to learn about myself was that I loved the behavioral challenges of working with children. My dentist friend was amazing in his

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LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS

communication skills, and I became so as well. During all of my hygiene practices, I also yearned for something more creative. So, I experimented with all kinds of classes and hobbies. I took photography, Chinese Brush Painting, gardening, cooking, and writing. I also took a class in Ikebana, the art of Japanese floral design. I fell in love with that and have become a lifelong student, achieving Master Level. I also started writing (non-dental) and getting published in a few magazines and Atlanta newspapers.

Then came an interesting opportunity – an invitation to become the Director of Hygiene for a 100+ practice DSO. Yikes! I didn’t even like DSOs. In the early days, DSOs had a negative “doc-in-the-box” reputation. I was wary but curious. The CEO flew to Atlanta to interview me over lunch at the Ritz. I dared to mention my concern which he addressed openly with a vision for a stellar C-suite team and that we could be the change makers. Yes, it sounded challenging and interesting, and if it only lasted six months, it would look good on my resume.

Then I made a dramatic departure – figuratively and Well, six months turned into six years. During that time, I literally. I sold everything and moved to Hawaii - no, not for (we): a job, but for love. I moved to paradise, on the Big Island of Hawaii, to be with my then-boyfriend (now husband of 30+ • Developed a phenomenal team (who have each gone years). My boyfriend/husband had built our house on the on to remarkable DSO careers of their own) ocean, and he built me a very cool outdoor writing desk on • Developed a best-in-class periodontal program a screened-in porch where I wrote travel articles. • Developed clinical and business systems • Enjoyed yearly revenue increases I also drove regularly to the other side of the island to • Developed wonderful vendor relationships study tropical floral design at Kona’s most extravagant and beautiful hotels. Together we grew many varieties of Then came an interesting opportunity – an invitation to tropical plants and flowers. I also worked diligently on my become the Director of Hygiene for a 100+ practice DSO. suntan and afternoon cocktails. Yikes! I didn’t even like DSOs. In the early days, DSOs had a negative “doc-in-the-box” reputation. I was wary but You may be wondering if I practiced any hygiene there. curious. The CEO flew to Atlanta to interview me over The answer is no. I even let my license expire. I do NOT lunch at the Ritz. I dared to mention my concern which recommend this! Always preserve and protect your he addressed openly with a vision for a stellar C-suite license(s) for which you worked so hard. team and that we could be the change makers. Yes, it sounded challenging and interesting, and if it only lasted As much as we loved paradise, family and personal issues six months, it would look good on my resume. called us back to the mainland. Back in Atlanta, I built a thriving business creating fabulous floral designs for Well, six months turned into six years. During that time, I special social and corporate events for years. Then that (we): pesky dentist friend kept bugging me to help him. (What! You let your license expire! Are you crazy?!) License re- Developed a phenomenal team (who have each gone on instated, I temped for him. I also ran into a future dental to remarkable DSO careers of their own) mentor who said I would make a good consultant. To which I replied, “Me? Never!”. Never say never. Developed a best-in-class periodontal program What I eventually discovered was that I love mentoring as much as I love flowers. And my mentoring took me in many directions. I worked with a wonderful team of hygienists developing hygiene coaching programs. I practiced hygiene and full-practice consulting. I honed my speaking skills, speaking nationally and internationally (Australia, New Zealand, Colombia). I authored the books and coordinated programs: • Selling Dentistry – Ethically. Elegantly. Effectively. • Meetings Make Money – Productive Dental Meetings for Best Dental Practices • Bloom – Nature’s 5 Steps to Cultivate the Power of Your Potential

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Developed clinical and business systems Enjoyed yearly revenue increases Developed wonderful vendor relationships I learned: • Corporate structure • How to work with various corporate departments • New business skills • How to embrace, assess, and implement new technologies • The power of networking

LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS

Having the ability to supervise and oversee hundreds is a bit like having your own personal laboratory. I could quickly determine what worked and what didn’t, giving me almost instant results which enabled quick course corrections. I was accumulating a body of knowledge that would prove successful, repeatedly and predictably. I have seen the DSO – good, bad, ugly. I’m happy to witness, and contribute to, the ethical evolution of group dentistry. Group dentistry/DSOs are here to stay. I know the foundational pillars that make them ethically successful, starting with a healthy and comprehensive hygiene department. So, my next new business venture is offering my services as a “fractional” CHO (Chief Hygiene Officer).

DeW DATES Mark your calendars:

Annual DeW Life Retreat Oct. 25-27, 2023 Charlotte, NC Greater New York Dental Meeting November 24 – 29 Jacob K. Javits Convention Center NYC, NY Yankee Dental Congress January 25 - 27, 2024 Boston Convention And Exhibition Center Boston, MA Chicago Midwinter Meeting Feb. 22 – 24, 2024 McCormick Place West Chicago, IL If you want to arrange a meetup, please email anneduffy@dew.life

As badly as emerging DSOs need a game plan for growth, a Hygiene Director/Leader/CHO is often just not in their budget. Fractional C-level executives, typically former executives, provide their expertise for a fraction of the time and cost of a full-time chief officer. As a fractional CHO, I’ll utilize my past DSO experience to teach young DSOs how to create a hygiene department that is profitable, patient-centered, consistent, and scalable. While I will still continue my case acceptance coaching (Selling Dentistry), this next evolution of fractional DSO CHO is a logical next step in fulfilling an important DSO need. I’m thrilled to get started. If this sounds like a zig-zag career path, it’s because it is. The Japanese have a mythical saying that evil spirits travel in a straight path. Hence the Zig Zag Bridge is a charming and popular feature in Japanese gardens. While the bridge may seem to meander meaninglessly, it does indeed get one from the beginning to the destination, albeit the stops and turns in direction. Each zig or zag delivers the person on the pass to a different visual perspective. The Zig Zag Bridge has, in many ways, reflected my path in my life, and my career as a woman in dentistry. While many folks know early on their path/career/ life direction and stick to it, my path has cris-crossed through various passions, paradigms, plans, purposes, and places. And while my various “distractions” at the time seemed like a different path altogether, in retrospect, my zigs and zags have all contributed to where I am today and where I want to go tomorrow – my destiny as a Fractional CHO, a woman in dentistry, and as a DeW.

About the author: Janet Hagerman is known as THE Case Acceptance Coach for dentists and their teams. An international speaker, author, and consultant, Janet is the author of numerous articles, podcasts, webinars, and the signature books and programs Selling Dentistry, Meetings Make Money, and BLOOM. Janet is known for helping others to cultivate and bloom the power of their potential.

*See my DeW article Feb 2017 My Zig Zag Path https://dew. life/2017/02/03/my-zig-zag-path/

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EMPATHY UNLEASHED: EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF SOFT SKILLS AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS ON PATIENT CARE OUTCOMES

on’t worry; this isn’t a sappy article about fluff or the kind that makes you want to roll your eyes. This is a piece written to have us look at all our communication closely and value more deeply the connection we have (or don’t have) with the person attached to the tooth, disease, or condition. The kind of piece that makes you wonder about the success of treatment and patient outcomes. It will hopefully have you think back on a situation you or a loved one has experienced. One that could have been more impactful (in a good way) with more empathy and words that work to instill trust and confidence. I hope you’ll read on! On December 1st, I had an event that changed my life and influenced my belief in how effective communication and empathy create more significant patient outcomes than ever. I went to my pain management specialist, whom I had seen before. I was there for a “routine” (their words, not mine) injection that sent me from pain to paralyzed in less than 30 minutes. Although I lost a lot of the time that followed, I have memories that are not pleasant and PTSD about anyone with a needle near my neck or spine. After almost a month in CCU and a rehab hospital, I was determined to be home for Christmas. This event would unfold into many medical appointments, ten plus providers, intense outpatient care, lab work, x-rays, scans, MRIs, OT, and PT, the latter still today and probably an entire year. In the back of my mind at many of these appointments was a question: Where is your empathy? Do you believe patient outcomes can be better when

By JoAn Majors

you have greater connections and use soft skills in your communication? My experience only reminded me that we are ahead in showing empathy in dentistry for the most part. We establish meaningful connections and often care deeply for them. It reminded me to constantly fight to regain my health because there is still so much work we can do in this area of care. Providers can confuse the framed documents on the wall as a reason to be trusted. I’ve worked closely with a brilliant sociologist who studied the trust factor in healthcare. I learned so much during this time. We are in a connection economy, and that paper on the wall doesn’t do what it did in the past. It takes intentional listening and empathy to build trust. Then, and only then, will patients trust us and the process for care. We see it in advanced care procedures when compliance and home care are essential to success. With today’s team members, it’s essentially the same: take the time to “know him/her,” and they will be loyal, but treat them like commodities, and they will not serve you or the patient well. We can see it in some large groups where team members forget who they are “working or learning” for. What drives someone to unleash their empathy? I’ve been called the verbal word surgeon for years in my circles. Soft skills communication involves trust with the team and trust with the patients to choose the best in care. It’s been my lane for years. We scaled this type of training almost 30 years ago with the industry’s number one case acceptance seminars. As a speaking professional, trainer, and coach, I’ve always emphasized the importance of

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establishing trust and offering empathy in patient care. However, not until this critical event did I understand more deeply the profound impact these qualities have on patient outcomes. I was experiencing something producing new insight into this belief of combined soft skills and science. Throughout my recovery, I had the opportunity to witness first-hand the power of compassionate care. My occupational therapist (OT) became my guiding light, showing genuine interest in my progress and seeking new ways to help my hands regain function. Her dedication as a lifelong learner, constantly striving to enhance her knowledge and skills, inspired me and fueled my determination to overcome the obstacles before me. She was the one who pointed out the condition of CRPS and suggested I see a hand specialist for the actual diagnosis. Compare this to a hygienist or clinical assistant who sees an issue or concern. The patient has so much trust in them when they point out a problem and suggest, “We need to point this out to Dr. Wonderful and ask about this.” The patient is already leaning in when the doctor makes a diagnosis or treatment option. It’s all about trust. I was referred to a specialist for CRPS (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) at the Houston Medical Center. From the first phone call, I knew I had finally found the right place to get answers and heal. This specialist (Dr. Hero2) and the experience profoundly impacted my recovery. He took a genuine interest in my case, starting when he entered the room. Rather than solely focusing on the physical symptoms and diagnostic records, he asked me how my life had been going since my event, demonstrating a level of caring beyond the medical diagnosis. His presence and active listening made me feel seen and heard like I hadn’t experienced with any other doctor. Dr. Hero2 had an exceptional approach to patient care; it ignited a sense of belief within me. I trusted him not only for his medical expertise but also for his ability to understand the broader

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impact of my condition on my life. His genuine care and connection instilled hope and confidence in the treatment process. As the weeks passed, I noticed astonishing progress in my recovery. I attribute this transformation to the stateof-the-art medical interventions he suggested and the trust and belief I now had in my provider. His empathetic approach and willingness to invest time in understanding my experience played a pivotal role in the remarkable progress I was experiencing. It also re-energized me to complete my new book with this personal evidence I am sharing and journaling in my recovery. His approach created enormous trust and a new belief in my potential outcome. It also offered me hope. To think that I would find medical professionals that mirrored what so many of our dental professionals provide when we care for our patients was inspiring. However, for those who understand and have experienced the difference in our practices, it illuminates what we have been doing for years. It also made me realize that the soft skills we develop in people because we believe it is critical to care are now validated in this experience. I thought I had health in my future because this doctor did. Looking back, I am grateful for the lessons in this journey. This doctor sold me the destination. In other words, he didn’t spend as much time telling me details about some painful recovery process; he spent time sharing my potential destination with the care. He talked about how this experience would only validate the content I’d been sharing for years. He told me how my audiences would be more empathetic to their patients when they heard my “truth” about how it relates to believing, healing (inside and out), and finally, this patient’s outcome. I am even more committed to spreading this message of the vital role soft skills can play in all healthcare. In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often takes

LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS center stage, it’s easy to overlook human connection’s vital role in patient care. I’ve witnessed the transformative power of soft skills and meaningful patient-care connections. When we truly listen, patients feel valued, understood, and respected. This genuine care fosters a bond of trust that becomes the foundation of the doctorpatient relationship. Research has shown time and time again that patient outcomes are influenced by the level of trust they have in their healthcare providers. When patients trust their dentists and the entire team, they are more likely to be proactive in seeking and accepting necessary treatments. This, in turn, leads to improved adherence to treatment plans and better overall health. Moreover, science has also demonstrated that a solid patient-doctor connection reduces the likelihood of malpractice lawsuits. Patients who feel cared for and understood are less likely to pursue legal action even if an unfavorable outcome occurs. This highlights the significance of building trust throughout the patient’s journey. The doctor who gave me the “routine spinal injection” happens to have been one of my favorite providers ever. I referred to him as “hero” because he departed from the common doctor-speak and ease of explaining complicated issues my spine surgeon would leave me wondering about. “JoAn, you guys have a CT scan. Come sit here; I’ll show you what Dr. Con Fusion is discussing on your MRI.” He would walk through everything the surgeon said with empathy unleashed. Immediately following the injection that left me paralyzed, the attorneys were ready. I was so angry and seriously thought I was ready, too. Stay with me because here is where it gets tricky. At my first visit to the specialist, Dr.

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Hero2, he shared something that stopped me and likely began the healing. He said, “JoAn, I can see your anger and the pain; you weep today and speak about your friend “hero.”One important thing to you having the healing you deserve is to see him, especially since you have not since your event. Please make an appointment and sit with him and share your pain. I believe it will allow you to begin the real healing.” Remember, I trust Dr. Hero2 immensely, so I did what he asked. It gave me new peace, and my healing is progressing nicely inside and out! My experience reinforced my belief in lifelong learning and continuous improvement for healthcare professionals. It reinforced my belief that my God is in my life for it all. He trusted me with a situation that could have been very different had I not kept my eyes on Him and taken my direction from Him. When providers and the team prioritize connecting with their patients personally, it can lead to transformative outcomes and improved patient care. In conclusion, my encounter with paralysis propelled me on a journey of healing physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through the respect and empathy of dedicated healthcare professionals, I’m witnessing the incredible impact trust and genuine connection can have on patient outcomes. As I recover and embrace life with newfound appreciation, I remain inspired to share this message with my audiences. Together, we can create a world where empathy and compassion are at the forefront of patient care, leading to more positive and life-changing experiences. It’s not all science; it is the heart-to-heart connection that truly makes a difference in the lives of our patients. Let us continue to build trust, unleash empathy, and watch patient outcomes soar to new heights. Together, we can create a brighter and healthier future.

About JoAn Majors JoAn Majors is a professional speaker, published author, and registered dental assistant specializing in training and development. An expert on strategic messaging and soft skills systems, she’s fondly referred to as a “verbal word surgeon.” She believes curiosity is a talent, and asking the right questions creates a more significant guest or patient experience. She has earned the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), the highest earned designation in the speaking business through the National Speakers Association. She is also a Certified Virtual Presenter. She’s been published in 25 magazines and newsletters and has written four books and another out at the end of 2023: It’s Only “Routine” Until It’s Not! JoAn also serves on the Advisory Board for Dental Entrepreneur Woman magazine, and is a co-founder and content creation specialist for The Soft Skills Institute, LLC. To learn more, contact Jeannie at info@thesoftskillsinstitute.com or see her in action at joanmajors.com.

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OUTSOURCING

LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS

MESSAGES THAT MOVE PEOPLE: THREE WAYS DENTAL PROFESSIONALS CAN USE SPEAKING SKILLS TO BUILD THEIR PRACTICE AND ADVANCE THEIR CAREERS

as anyone ever said to you, “No one has ever explained that to me so clearly,” or “I get it now, the reason this is so important,” or “You inspired me today”? Have you ever introduced an idea at a team meeting, trained your team in an area that caused the feeling in the room to shift, inspired the team to get better, and propelled patient care a giant leap forward in your practice? Have you ever listened to a dental speaker and thought, “I could have said that better” or “I wonder if I could do that someday”? If you are a dentist, hygienist, clinical assistant, or administrator, you may never have considered yourself a public speaker. As a matter of fact, you may have run screaming from the very thought! But I’d like to offer a different perspective on this career-enhancing, lifechanging skill. Whether you’re introducing new technology to teammates, leading a local community event, promoting a new idea, speaking at an industry study club, addressing a board of directors, sharing best practices, or rallying your team around the company vision, your ability to create clarity and inspiration with your communication skills will

By Katherine Eitel Belt

determine your success as an in-demand, highly-paid dental professional. Warren Buffet once said, “Public speaking is THE most valuable business skill any professional could have.” And that includes dental professionals. Here are three reasons you should consider enhancing your ability to confidently step to the “front of the room.”

Passion. If you are passionate about any aspect of dentistry, one of the best ways to spread your expertise is to speak and educate other dental professionals at study clubs, association meetings, or on webinars or podcasts. Not only can you spread your message, improve patient outcomes, and upgrade the collective consciousness about your subject, but you can also elevate your own career and income without giving up your “day job.” Every speaker on the dental circuit started with a passion to educate and motivate their fellow constituents. Some turned it into a full-time speaking career while others augmented their clinical career with speaking as a side gig. Either way, you can expand your career, travel to exciting places, and meet other like-minded professionals to enhance the enjoyment of your dental career if you master

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the art of public speaking. Now, I know what some of you are thinking! “I’ve got plenty of knowledge and passion, but the thought of stepping onto a stage makes me want to throw up!” Not to worry, you can conquer the fear of public speaking quicker and easier than you ever imagined. Trust me, I know! There are some new, quick, and innovative ways to conquer your fear of the stage once and for all, so don’t let those old mental gremlins keep you from reaching your dreams. More on that in a minute!

Alignment. “The confused mind always says no.” If you are an owner or manager of a dental practice (or any business related to dentistry), you need alignment—alignment for your team with your future vision, goals, and cultural standards; alignment with the use of new technologies; alignment of verbal skills and organizational systems. The best way to gain this alignment is to address your team, department, or even individuals with a crystal-clear message, request, or standard coupled with a heavy dose of inspiration. Clarity helps them know exactly what to do, and inspiration helps them want to take a step in that direction. Otherwise, it’s just one more thing to add to their long to-do list. Having the ability to present your requests, ideas, and aspirations to your team in a clear and compelling way is key to gaining the team alignment you seek and accomplishing your goals and objectives. Public speaking skills are nothing more than that: presenting ideas clearly and inspirationally. Learning how to do it every time you address your team will not only catapult your practice to new heights but also make your practice one that retains its employees over the long term. Good employees love working for someone who is clear and inspiring. Career Advancement. If you are already a team lead or someday aspire to hold a leadership position within your organization, mastering the art of public speaking is an essential skill and one that will put your name at the top of the list of candidates. As a leader, you must have the ability to rally your people around a clear set of objectives and inspire them to action. This is the number one skill that owners and C-Suite executives look for in an emerging leader. Get it now and use it to build your career, expand your opportunities, and grow your value and income.

Okay, so now that I’ve convinced you that you are, will be, or should be a great presenter, how do you do it? I promise

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you that it is easier than you’ve been led to believe. I’ve been speaking for over three decades in the dental, veterinary, and healthcare industries. I’ve spoken on small stages to client teams, medium-sized convention stages to hundreds of attendees as a breakout speaker or workshop trainer, and large stages to audiences of over 2,000 people as a keynote speaker. Last year, I received my C.S.P. (Certified Speaking Professional) from the National Speakers Association, which is a coveted, earned designation. Speaking is one of the most rewarding parts of my career, and I still consider it an honor to take any stage, no matter the size. But for years, I feared it. The path to delivering a concise, organized, profound message that was interesting to listen to and inspired my audience to action seemed impossible to master. But it’s not. Today as a speaking coach, I’ve used my front-of-the-room experience and narrowed the art and craft of presentation skills down to four essential parts: speech construction, storytelling, physical delivery, and preparation/practice. If you master these, anyone can become a compelling and interesting speaker. In this article, I’ll share my formula for how to construct a great presentation and my best tip for managing those pesky nerves and jitters.

SPEECH CONSTRUCTION USING THE BOOKSHELF FORMULA The Bookshelf is our proprietary framework for organizing your thoughts, information, and content. It works like this:

The Shelf: A foundational sentence that clearly explains the “One Line Bottomline” of your presentation.

The Books (1-5): These represent the containers for your supporting concepts. There are many ways to structure your books, such as problem, solution, recommendations or mindset, skillset, and toolset. They might have chapters and subchapters and may all be different sizes and lengths, but they will organize your content so your listeners can follow your train of thought and not get lost or confused in your presentation.

The Opening Bookend: This is not content but rather a powerful opening that captivates your audience from the moment you take the stage and the moment you open your mouth. It can be a story, analogy, staggering statistic, bold claim, powerful quote, or even an exercise, but whatever you choose, it must do two things: 1) grab the audience’s attention in a powerful way and 2) foreshadow what’s coming on

LIVING YOUR STRENGTHS your bookshelf.

The Closing Bookend: Amateur speakers just run out of time, but skilled presenters always close with power and punch. They would rather cut content than ever cut their closing. This important bookend provides a quick review of the books presented, gives a clear call to action, and leaves its audiences with a heavy dose of inspiration and hope.

Now that you’ve organized your thoughts, how do you muster the courage to take the stage or step to the front of the room? A lot of speaking coaches will tell you to breathe deeply, do some jumping jacks prior to presenting, or repeat a relaxing mantra in your mind. While all of these well-intentioned tips definitely help, they only address the symptoms of the problem and not the problem itself. The problem is adrenaline, and the reason for that problem is the mental frame we have about our audience. It’s essentially our fight-or-flight response. If we have framed the audience in our mind as a “body of judgment,” our primitive brain senses a threat to our well-being and automatically pumps adrenaline to help us “fight, flee, or freeze.” None of them work very well on stage. Because we can’t run or fight, this unused adrenaline causes our bodies to shake, our mouths to go dry, and our stomachs to feel nauseated. But if we can re-frame the audience in our mind as a “body of need,” we now engage the pre-frontal cortex of our brains, which is responsible for empathy, logic, and executive function… great tools for owning the stage! And the audience does need us. We wouldn’t be up there if we didn’t have something to share that would make their lives easier, better, more productive, more satisfying, more successful. There is a need in the room, and when we speak to that need, we put the emphasis on the audience and not on ourselves or how we will be judged. When we seek to soothe the pain, fill the gaps, present solutions, and administer hope, our bodies release endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin—all feel-good chemicals that calm and soothe us on stage. Of course, there is much more to learn to become a great presenter and speaker, but it can be easier, quicker, and way more fun than you might have expected. You can deliver great presentations to your team, your industry, and beyond, and you should. Great presentations chase down big ideas; targeted interactions deliver breakthrough moments; and impeccably told stories prime the emotional pump to crystallize your message and create unforgettable moments of clarity and inspiration for whoever is in your audience.

People need our voices, expertise, and inspiration to make their jobs, careers, practices, patient outcomes, and overall lives better. You have something to share, and I encourage you to consider bringing your message to a larger audience that needs you and your unique perspective. The world is waiting for your unique brilliance, so get out there and shine!

GOOD NEWS! There’s good news about getting these skills quickly. You don’t have to wait. You can get better now! If you’d like some help to improve your speaking skills or the skills of your entire team, check out the Inspirational Speakers Video Training Course. It’s an affordable, on-demand video series with 15 short modules to help you quickly organize your thoughts, engage your listeners, craft better stories, move with confidence, and manage your nerves. Use this link (https://www.lionspeak.net/speakingskills/) to order and save $100 on the full course using code DEW100. If you’d like a copy of our free resources for speakers, which includes articles on the bookshelf formula, storytelling techniques, and other amazing resources, go to this webpage: https://www.lionspeak.net/ speaking-resources/ Don’t forget to sign up for Katherine’s complimentary inspirational blog called Monday Morning Stretch. It’s where over 5,000 team members get their weekly inspiration, communication tips, and leadership reminders. http://www.lionspeak.net/blog/

About the author: Katherine Eitel Belt and LionSpeak Communications Coaching provides training services designed to help dental teams access their own instinctive greatness and their full potential. If you’d like to dramatically improve your communication skills for frontline patient interactions, leadership conversations, team culture, and speaking skills, then visit our website www.LionSpeak. net, for a look at how we can help you master consistently excellent, unscripted communication. You’ll find audio programs, workshops, virtual and on-site team training, team culture retreats, and mystery shopper call services. Call us at (800) 595-7060 and identify yourself as a Dental Entrepreneur Women member and we’ll give you an extra 10% off!

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1 Look For Opportunities That Build On Your Strengths. 2 Just DeW It! 3 Good DeWs Find Good DeWs. 4 The Answer Is In The Ladies Room. 5 Be Kind. Don’t Be A Jerk. 6 Honor People In Their Absence. No Gossiping. 7 Give People The Benefit Of The Doubt. No Judging. “To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Expected.” 8 - Luke 12:48 9 Start And Don’t Stop. DeWs Never Retire. 10 Never Give Up On Your Dreams.

RESILIENCE

FROM AWARENESS TO ACTION: WHITE FEMALES TACKLING RACISM IN ORAL HEALTHCARE

By Kristine Berry

“There are many kinds of power, used and unused, acknowledged or otherwise.” -Audre Lorde

he current dialogue surrounding women in dentistry often focuses on topics like which conventions to attend, how to support each other, how more dental school graduates are now female, and the ideal way to be a CEO. However, this has led some to question whether the “women’s movement” in dentistry only serves the narrow interests of certain classes of white women.

of oral healthcare as well as the United States. Therefore, as dental professionals, regardless of whether we work in clinical or non-clinical roles, we are responsible for acknowledging and openly discussing issues related to race and racism within the field.

Female oral healthcare associations and groups must be committed to inclusivity, ensuring their initiatives encompass all women, regardless of race or gender identity. Unfortunately, there have been instances where certain white female groups have predominantly focused on interpreting the oral healthcare industrial complex through the lens of historical white male attitudes, actions, and ways of being, leading to meetings and discussions that reinforce racist, sexist, patriarchal/matriarchal, and hierarchal beliefs, and behaviors. To genuinely support and center all voices, it is essential to recognize and address the challenges faced by individuals who do not conform to institutionalized dental norms, such as women of color and trans women.

• The current dialogue surrounding women in dentistry and addressing inclusivity and intersectionality ensures that all women, regardless of race or gender identity, are represented and supported. • The “White Supremacy (or White Superiority) Culture” framework to bring awareness to the deeply embedded norms and practices in professions and institutions that perpetuate white supremacy values and ways of thinking. • The benefits of participating in white affinity groups to engage in cultural awareness, recognize their power and privilege, promote allyship and advocacy, and actively discuss race and racism despite societal stigmatization. • The importance of assisting one another and actively confronting and dismantling oppressive systems in dentistry to create a more inclusive and belonging environment for all women.

While a comprehensive exploration of women’s history in oral healthcare goes beyond the scope of this article, it remains interconnected with the broader history of dentistry and all dental professions under the umbrella

This article aims to explore:

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RESILIENCE

RACISM Race is a man-made construct, and gender is a societal construct. Stereotyping is the root cause of racial discrimination, which can result in various forms of bias, such as prejudices, discrimination, and systemic racism. However, we have the power to recognize and rectify these biases in our actions and decision-making processes. Racism, as a system, relies on the establishment of racial categories to rationalize the mistreatment, dehumanization, and enslavement of certain groups. An example is the transatlantic slave trade, where European colonizers classified people from Africa as “black” and themselves as “white” to justify their actions and maintain control. Racism is, of course, not limited to black individuals. Systemic racism refers to the institutionalized racism that is deeply ingrained in different aspects of dentistry, such as who is accepted into dental school, hired, able to remain in an organization, offered sponsorship and mentorship, able to reach executive positions and board memberships, and given opportunities to speak and present. Racism goes beyond individual attitudes or actions; it operates within power structures, continuing implicit and explicit biases and prejudices. Recognizing the historical roots and pervasive influence of racism within society and dentistry allows us to address its harmful effects and strive for a more inclusive and equitable future. We must engage in open dialogue, educate ourselves, and actively challenge discriminatory practices to foster positive change.

WHITE SUPREMACY CULTURE FRAMEWORK The primary forces driving systemic and institutionalized racism in the United States are white supremacy and settler colonialism. It is crucial to emphasize that this identification does not target individual white people but rather serves as an analysis of the ideologies that sustain systemic racism. The “White Supremacy Culture” framework is a conceptual tool developed by Tema Okun, a well-known social justice educator and consultant. The framework aims to shed light on the deeply embedded norms and practices in organizations and institutions that perpetuate and reinforce white superiority and ways of thinking. The framework is often used to analyze and address structural inequalities, biases, and power dynamics within workplaces, educational institutions, and other social settings. It encourages self-reflection, discussion, and action to dismantle these harmful norms and cultivate a more inclusive, equitable environment.

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The dental profession, much like other professions, must face its own historical background in relation to racism and sexism. As you read through the following framework, consider the number of companies, organizations, and dental practices with cultural artifacts reinforcing these principles. Acknowledging these biases and discriminatory practices are still at play is crucial. Perfectionism: The belief that mistakes are unacceptable and that high standards must always be met, leading to fear of taking risks or making necessary changes. Sense of Urgency: Prioritizing immediate action over thoughtful, strategic planning can lead to impulsive decisions and disregarding long-term considerations and all voices. Defensiveness: Reacting with resistance or denial when confronted with issues of racism or inequity rather than engaging in open dialogue and self-reflection. Quantity over Quality: Placing more excellent value on productivity and speed rather than on the depth and quality of work or relationships. Worship of the Written Word: Privileging written communication and documentation over other forms of knowledge and communication. Paternalism: Treating others condescending or paternalistic, assuming that certain groups need guidance or “help” from those in power. Either/Or Thinking: Viewing situations in binary terms. Power Hoarding: Concentrating power and decisionmaking in the hands of a few rather than distributing it more equitably. Fear of Open Conflict: Avoiding difficult conversations or conflict can stifle authentic dialogue and learning. Individualism: Focusing on individual achievement and responsibility rather than recognizing group influences on outcomes. It’s essential to note that this framework is not about labeling individuals as white supremacists but about understanding and challenging the cultural norms that reinforce systemic racism and inequity. By recognizing and dismantling these harmful characteristics, oral healthcare associations, organizations, and communities can work towards creating more inclusive, just, and equitable environments for everyone.

WHAT WHITE FEMALE PROFESSIONALS CAN DO Culture plays a significant role in shaping our understanding of socially constructed racial categories

RESILIENCE and systemic racism. We, white women, must understand that we have benefitted from the white superiority culture more than any other women. Hence we need to engage in cultural awareness and recognize our power and privilege and the impact of our white conditioning on our perspectives and actions.

disagreements and hurt feelings can arise among sisters. Nevertheless, it is imperative to support one another, even when it involves receiving constructive criticism. As adults and professionals, we must recognize that our “white” feelings should not always precede someone else’s life experiences.

It’s important to discuss anti-racist work and racism openly, even though society may stigmatize these topics. Just like someone needs to train and exercise to prepare for a marathon, consistently practicing conversations about race and racism is necessary. Even the most wellprepared runners can still make soil themselves or not finish first, so being afraid to make mistakes, “wanting to be nice,” or simply not being racist is not sufficient.

Addressing racism in dentistry may be challenging, but ignoring it poses an even greater risk. By actively confronting and dismantling oppressive systems, policies, language, and behaviors, we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment that empowers all women in oral healthcare and beyond.

White folks (men and women) can benefit from participating in white affinity groups. White affinity groups, also known as white caucuses or white identity groups, are gatherings or spaces specifically designed for white individuals to explore and discuss issues related to their racial identity and privilege. The purpose of white affinity groups is to create awareness, foster understanding, and facilitate conversations about racial dynamics and inequities in society.

About the author: Kristine Berry RDH, MSEC, CDE® (She/Her) founded Dental Diversity and Inclusion Alliance to help dental practices and dental groups with project management for DEI strategic planning and implementation and includes aspects like implicit bias training, accountability measures, coaching, and developing and tracking inclusive and belonging outcomes and actions. If you are looking for an implementor or speaker, please visit https://dentaldiversityandinclusionalliance.com or email coachkristineberry@gmail.com

The benefits of participating in such groups are as follows: Self-reflection and personal growth: Conversing about race and privilege can help individuals better understand their biases and assumptions. Building empathy and cultural sensitivity: By participating in white affinity groups, white individuals can enhance their empathy and better appreciate the experiences and perspectives of individuals from different racial backgrounds. Recognizing and addressing systemic racism: White affinity groups provide an opportunity to learn about systemic racism and its impact on marginalized communities. Allyship and advocacy: White individuals are crucial in being allies to marginalized communities. Participating in white affinity groups can equip them with the knowledge and tools to challenge racism and inequality within their profession. It can also empower them to advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in dental education, practice, and policy.

CONCLUSION The term “sisterhood” is frequently employed to describe the connections among women in dentistry, highlighting the significance of solidarity. Sisterhood entails a relationship built on mutual respect, though

Kristine’s Disclaimer: I am not an expert. I am not an expert. I have done my best to compile this article to the best of my abilities. It is essential to remember that, like all humans, I have limitations. I am not savior-ing. To ensure you know, when I discuss the challenges a specific group faces, I don’t represent the views of every individual in that group. I base my content and analysis on scientific studies, research papers, data sets, books, social media feeds, personal conversations, and experiences. It’s important to remember that we are all constantly learning and growing. I am biased. As a fellow human, I understand we all have inherent biases and limitations. If you ever encounter any inaccuracies or feel I may misrepresent a situation, please do not hesitate to contact me. I am always eager to learn and improve, and I appreciate any constructive feedback that can help me better serve you. An abridged list of references. AAPHD Council on Scientific Information. (2021). Anit-Racism In Dental Public Health: A Call To Action (White Paper). American Association of Public Health Dentistry, Springfield, IL. Agarwal, P. (2020). SWAY: Unravelling Unconscious Bias. London: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc. Diangelo, R., & Burtaine, A. (2022). The Facilitator’s Guide for White Affinity Groups. Boston: Beacon Press. Jones, K., & Okun, T. (2001). Dismantling Racism: A Workbook for Social Change Groups. Changework. Retrieved March 2023, from https://www.cwsworkshop.org/PARC_site_B/dr-culture.html

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MY SMILE MATTERS

JOIN US FOR OUR BIGGEST DENTAL HYGIENE CAMPAIGN EVER! Throughout the month of October, we'll be promoting why smiles matter for overall good health and success in life, and the value dental hygienists bring to the health of children.

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SUCCESS

A JOURNEY OF HOPE AND HEALING: FROM ORTHODONTIC PATIENT TO EMPOWERED ENTREPRENEUR

ROOTED IN AMBITION My life journey started in the country of Georgia, situated at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. My parents arrived in the United States with only $100 in their possession. With a fierce ambition, my father diligently worked 18-hour shifts, driving a yellow Checker Cab, to provide for our family of five. In Georgia, my mother was just one semester away from becoming a doctor and also pursued a career as a professional pianist. Together, they decided to pursue the American dream, and I am their firstgeneration American. To me, my mother represents unwavering courage and fearlessness. Despite the challenges of an immigrant family, she filled our modest apartment with music and heartwarming home-cooked meals, and her kindness extended to all who needed a friend. My admiration for my parents knows no bounds; they instilled in me a sense of compassion by selflessly giving, even when they had very little, and by upholding their cultural values of nurturing others as a way of showing love and respect. Their profound influence guided me to aspire to become a doctor. I wanted my mother to witness the fulfillment of the potential she nurtured within me and understand that

By Sima Yakoby Epstein, DMD

her sacrifices were not in vain. I am proud to carry on the tradition of their strong work ethic and generosity, and to this day, continue to embrace the belief that the American dream is attainable through hard work and dedication.

TRIUMPH AFTER TRAGEDY My career path and current success as an entrepreneur were profoundly influenced by a car accident I experienced at the age of 13 that left me with broken and uneven teeth, necessitating extensive and painful dental work. As a result, I felt vulnerable and insecure about my appearance throughout my teenage years. My parents were supportive but unfamiliar with the English language and had little guidance or understanding of how to navigate the situation. Despite their concern, I was determined to not add to their stress and started taking an active role in my treatment journey. Over the years of treatment, I developed a deep admiration for the orthodontist who played a vital role in my recovery and well-being. He told me that “great things would come from this life-changing experience” and assured me that “I would change people’s lives.” I aspired to become a similar type of doctor, one who encourages patients and

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SUCCESS instills confidence in them to navigate any challenges they may encounter during treatment and beyond. Witnessing the transformation of my smile had a positive impact on my physical appearance and also instilled in me a newfound mental and emotional confidence — sparking a genuine fascination with orthodontics and a profound passion for ensuring patient well-being. As a result of my personal journey, I found my focus shifting towards a career in orthodontics, driven by the desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others, just as my orthodontist did for me.

PATH TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP With this aspiration in mind, I pursued my education at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, where I earned a DMD degree. Following that, I completed my Residency at New York Presbyterian, taught Aesthetic Dentistry at New York University, and worked as a Cosmetic Dentist in New York City before embarking on my career as an orthodontist specializing in Clinical Orthodontics. As a clinician, I began searching for ways to empower patients and make the impact my father and orthodontist had intuitively predicted. In practice, I witnessed firsthand the struggles children and parents faced when issues arose with their braces or aligners. I frequently found myself on calls with patients crying in the background, parents clearly upset, and both parties frustrated that they were powerless to address the problem at home. The COVID-19 pandemic made this situation even worse, preventing many patients from visiting their orthodontist’s office. It was during this time that I realized there was an unmet need in the industry for a self-care tool that would allow patients, and/or their caregivers, to address the most common orthodontic emergencies on their own, while simultaneously increasing office efficiencies by reducing emergency visits. This was clearly an area starving for innovation. Shockingly, approximately 85% of orthodontic patients experience such emergencies during their treatment journey, such as broken wires, brackets, and sharp edges on aligners. As orthodontists, we can do much better for our patients than subjecting them to inconvenience, discomfort, and uncertainty until they can access care. This is what inspired me to become an entrepreneur and establish my company, OrthoNu. Our goal is to develop products that support orthodontists and improve the experience for people undergoing treatment with braces

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and aligners. Our hero products, Tweakz for Braces and Aligners, do exactly that with 4-in-1 professional-grade tools specifically designed to allow patients or their caregivers to handle emergencies on their own in between orthodontic visits. Tweakz marks just the beginning of my vision to change the standard of care and deliver impactful innovation. Currently, we have fourteen patents pending and three that were approved for state-of-the-art tools designed to enhance patient comfort, improve oral health, and contribute to overall well-being.

FOSTERING RELATIONSHIPS AND GIVING BACK I am extremely grateful for the love and support from both my personal and professional relationships, which I have always prioritized. Over the years, I have maintained my connection to my alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania. This has led to partnerships with esteemed researchers at Penn’s Dental and Medical schools, as well as Penn’s Center for Innovation & Precision Dentistry (CiPD), in collaboration with Dr. Koo. Together, we have developed and validated two groundbreaking preventive medicine solutions for patients and doctors, and this is

SUCCESS atmosphere of warmth, with great music always playing and food prepared with love. This sense of fulfillment and happiness is the natural outcome of setting and achieving daily goals and maintaining discipline to pursue my passions wholeheartedly. Traveling and immersing myself in diverse cultures and traditions around the world is also a source of love and fulfillment for me. On quieter days, I find solace in spending Sunday mornings with a cup of coffee and a loaded bagel, engrossed in reading the Wall Street Journal. I also treasure moments spent at the beach, savoring the texture of sand beneath my feet and the rhythmic ebb and flow of ocean waves. You may frequently find me driving with the windows down, singing along to the lyrics of my favorite songs, and dancing without inhibition. Creating sweet memories with my precious family and remarkable friends, as well as engaging in or watching tennis, is something I eagerly anticipate. Tennis served as my father’s avenue to providing my brothers and me with remarkable opportunities, which has fostered a lasting love for the game in our hearts and has also taught us valuable life lessons. Through tennis, we were taught at an early age that you must be willing to work harder than anyone else to achieve your goals and know that sacrifice, love, and respect will help you succeed.

just the beginning. Mentoring has also become a cornerstone of my entrepreneurial endeavors. By devoting substantial time to mentorship, I forge connections with orthodontic residents, guiding them to unlock their limitless potential. My passion to create opportunities and bring visions to life was nurtured by my own mentors — Dr. Marc Lemchen, Dr. Jennifer Salzer, and Dr. Jeffrey Shapiro. These professionals, pivotal figures during my dental and orthodontic education, inspired me to relentlessly pursue the extraordinary.

LOVE, LAUGHTER, AND MOTHERHOOD

About the author: Dr. Sima Yakoby Epstein holds a Doctorate of Medicine in Dentistry and Clinical Orthodontics from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She completed her residency at New York Presbyterian and taught Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry at New York University. She has more than 10 years of professional orthodontic experience and a lifetime of patient experience. She is committed to engaging top orthodontic innovators and scientific developers as she transforms the orthodontic industry. Website: orthonu.com Facebook: facebook.com/OrthoNu LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/orthonu/ Instagram: @ortho.nu Twitter: @OrthoNu

When I’m not pursuing my professional passions, I love spending time with family and friends. I derive immense joy from witnessing the radiant smiles on my children’s faces, Sloane and Liam, when they achieve even the smallest of accomplishments. Being their mother is a cherished privilege, and I consider myself fortunate and honored to have them in my life. I also find great pleasure in watching my husband’s elation after a satisfying round of golf. It brings me joy to inquire about his game and share in his triumphs. Our home exudes an

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SUCCESS

MINDFUL CHANGE MANAGEMENT: MASTERING THE ART OF ADAPTABILITY AS A DENTAL ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN

he dental industry, like many others, is subject to constant change. Technological advancements, evolving patient expectations, and shifts in regulatory frameworks are just a few of the factors that can bring about significant transformations. For entrepreneurial women in the dental field, these changes can be both exciting and daunting. Being a leader in times of change requires resilience, adaptability, and a clear vision. Mindfulness, a practice centered on staying present and fully engaging in the present moment, can be a powerful tool in navigating these changes. In this article, we will explore a 5-step process using mindfulness principles to help women entrepreneurs in the dental industry navigate change and emerge as stronger leaders.

THE IMPORTANCE OF MINDFULNESS IN CHANGE MANAGEMENT Change is inevitable, and in today’s fast-paced dental world, it is occurring at an unprecedented rate. For practice owners and auxiliary staff, managing change effectively is crucial for business success. Mindfulness can play a key role in change management by promoting self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience.

By Marni Blythe

Research has shown that mindfulness can help individuals better adapt to change by reducing stress and anxiety, improving cognitive function, and enhancing interpersonal relationships. A study published in the ‘Journal of Change Management’ found that individuals who practiced mindfulness were better able to cope with change and experienced lower levels of change-related stress and anxiety.

OUR PROVEN 5-STEP MINDFULNESS PROCESS FOR NAVIGATING CHANGE Step 1: Cultivate Awareness The first step in navigating change with mindfulness is to cultivate awareness. This involves being fully present and paying attention to what is happening both within and around you. Take time to observe your thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations without judgment. Also, be aware of the external changes that are occurring and how they may impact your business. For example, if there is a new regulation that affects the way you provide dental services, take time to understand it fully and assess how it will impact your business operations.

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SUCCESS Step 2: Acceptance Acceptance is a crucial aspect of mindfulness and involves acknowledging the present moment without resistance. This means accepting the changes that are occurring, even if they are not what you had planned or hoped for. Resistance to change is a natural reaction, but it can be counterproductive and lead to increased stress and anxiety. Instead of resisting change, try to approach it with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. This does not mean that you have to agree with or like the changes, but rather that you acknowledge them as a part of your current reality. Step 3: Respond Instead of React, Hit the “Pause” Button When faced with change, it is common to have an automatic reaction, often driven by fear or anxiety. Mindfulness encourages us to respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively. Take time to pause, reflect, and consider the best course of action before making a decision. This can help you make more informed decisions and prevent unnecessary stress and conflict. Step 4: Stay Flexible Flexibility is key to navigating change successfully. This involves being open to new ideas, a willingness to adjust your plans, and being able to adapt to new situations. Mindfulness can help you stay flexible by promoting a nonjudgmental and open-minded attitude. Instead of getting stuck in a fixed mindset or clinging to old ways of doing things, approach change with curiosity and a willingness to explore new possibilities. Step 5: Practice Self-Care Change can be stressful, and it is important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Mindfulness can help you manage stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and enhancing well-being. Make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it is spending time with loved ones, exercising, or engaging in a hobby. Let us consider the example of Dr. Emma, a dentist who owns a small but thriving dental practice. Dr. Emma learned about a new regulation that required dental practices to implement additional safety protocols due to a recent health crisis. Emma initially felt overwhelmed and anxious about the changes as it meant additional expenses and changes to her daily operations. However, Dr. Emma decided to approach the situation with mindfulness. How?

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• She took time to fully understand the new regulations and assess how they would impact her practice. • She accepted that the changes were necessary and approached them with a positive attitude. • Instead of reacting impulsively, Emma took time to consider the best course of action and developed a plan to implement the new safety protocols in her practice. • She remained flexible and open to feedback from her staff and made adjustments to the plan as needed. • Emma also made a conscious effort to take care of herself by making time for relaxation and self-care. As a result of her mindful approach, Dr, Emma was able to implement the new safety protocols successfully and maintain a positive and supportive work environment for her staff. Dr. Emma’s approach not only helped her navigate the changes smoothly but also strengthened her leadership skills and resilience. Change is a constant in not only the dental world but also in our personal lives, and it is essential for us, as women AND entrepreneurs, to develop the skills and mindset needed to navigate it successfully. Mindfulness can be a powerful tool in managing change by promoting self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience. By cultivating awareness, practicing acceptance, responding thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively, staying flexible, and taking care of yourself, you can navigate change with greater ease and emerge as a stronger and more effective leader. Dr. Emma’s story is a testament to the effectiveness of mindfulness in navigating change and serves as an inspiration for women entrepreneurs in the dental industry and beyond.

About the author: Marni Blythe is a powerhouse in the business world, seamlessly blending her roles as a Fractional Integrator, CMO, Business Coach, Change Management and Mindfulness Expert, and Keynote Speaker. As a Change Management expert, Marni particularly shines in working with visionary dentists and their teams. She understands the unique challenges faced by dental professionals and crafts tailored strategies that emphasize leadership and emotional intelligence to drive profitability, efficacy, and happy teams. In a world of constant change, Marni Blythe stands as a beacon, guiding businesses through the complexities of change management with mindfulness and strategic planning. To learn more about Mindful Change Management and Marni visit: https://fullpocketcoaching.com/mindfulchange/

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Dental Entrepreneur Woman - Autumn 2023

Articles inside

SARAH COTTINGHAM

MINDFUL CHANGE MANAGEMENT: MASTERING THE ART OF ADAPTABILITY AS A DENTAL ENTREPRENEURIAL WOMAN

A JOURNEY OF HOPE AND HEALING: FROM ORTHODONTIC PATIENT TO EMPOWERED ENTREPRENEUR

FROM AWARENESS TO ACTION: WHITE FEMALES TACKLING RACISM IN ORAL HEALTHCARE

MESSAGES THAT MOVE PEOPLE:Three Ways Dental Professionals Can Use Speaking Skills To Build Their Practice And Advance Their Careers

EMPATHY UNLEASHED: EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF SOFT SKILLS AND MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS ON PATIENT CARE OUTCOMES

MY JOURNEY TO DSO “FRACTIONAL” CHO (CHIEF HYGIENE OFFICER)

DENTIST, MOM, WIFE, ENTREPRENEUR: WHO AM I? AND WHO HELPS ME DO ALL THAT I DO?