September 14, 2023

Humpday Happy Hour: Finding Fulfillment in Dentistry with Dr. Troy Schmedding

This week on Humpday Happy Hour, the DINKS crew welcomes back longtime friend and renowned educator Dr. Troy Schmedding for an honest conversation about building a rewarding career in dentistry. From mentorship and practice ownership to insurance challenges and career satisfaction, Dr. Schmedding shares the lessons he's learned throughout his journey—and why success isn't about doing everything, but about doing what you love exceptionally well. The discussion also explores the importance of community, lifelong learning, business ownership, and creating a practice that aligns with your passions and values. Whether you're a dental student, associate, or experienced practice owner, this episode offers practical advice on navigating your career, avoiding burnout, and redefining what success in dentistry really looks like. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Weekly Updates 03:30 – This Week's Dental News 10:15 – Welcoming Dr. Troy Schmedding 14:40 – What Troy Wishes He Knew Early in His Career 15:20 – The Importance of Mentorship & Community 18:00 – Finding Fulfillment Beyond Clinical Dentistry 22:00 – Leaving Delta Dental & Reinventing a Career 25:00 – Teaching, Taking Risks & New Opportunities 30:15 – Why It's Okay to Reinvent Yourself 32:05 – You Don't Have to Do Every Procedure 35:30 – The Pressure to Be a "Super Dentist" 38:40 – General Dentistry vs. Specialization 45:45 – Why Relationships Are the Best Part of General Practice 49:00 – Closing Thoughts from Dr. Schmedding If you've ever questioned your career path, wondered whether you're on the right track, or needed a reminder of why you chose dentistry, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.