
Hosted by Joanna Scott · EN

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna sits down with Trish Constantine — a dental revenue cycle and credentialing specialist, former practice co-owner, and someone whose path into dentistry was anything but linear. From being a competitive swimmer from ages 6 to 24 to starting out in nursing and eventually building and selling a practice with her husband, Trish shares how those early experiences shaped the way she approaches challenges, leadership, and growth today. This conversation goes beyond operations and into the mindset behind it all. Trish talks about what swimming taught her about failure (and why she sees it as a gift), what actually breaks inside a practice when systems aren't in place, and why so many teams feel stuck in survival mode. She also opens up about taking risks, learning as you go, and the idea that if something keeps pulling at you — whether in business or life — it's probably worth pursuing. This episode reveals what it takes to build something meaningful, even when you might not have it all figured out yet. Key Takeaways Failure isn't the end, it's feedback. Learning to get back in the "pool" is where real growth happens. Most practices don't have a people problem, they have a clarity and training problem that shows up as chaos. If something keeps pulling at you, waiting won't make it clearer — taking action will. Guest Information Trish Constantine is a dental revenue cycle and credentialing specialist who helps practices build stronger systems and healthier businesses. A former dental practice co-owner and proud Enneagram 8, she's wired to tackle problems head-on and advocate fiercely for dental teams. When she's not improving practice operations, she's usually hiking or horseback riding outdoors. How to Connect with Trish Constantine Email: trish.constantine1@gmail.com Website: https://icondentalpartners.com/ Instagram: @trish_constantine How to Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/ Resources Mentioned in this Episode The E Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber —Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this episode of The Story Project Podcast, Joanna sits down with Dr. Erin Sheffield — board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, founder of The Doctor is All-In, and a bold voice for women in surgery — for a candid conversation about mastery, resilience, and what it means to fully claim your calling. From fainting during her early surgical experiences to becoming a leader in a field where women remain significantly underrepresented, Erin shares the unfiltered realities of pursuing excellence in a male-dominated profession. Together, they explore the challenges women still face in surgery, from pay gaps to workplace dynamics, and the power of choosing community over competition. This episode is a reminder that being "all-in" isn't about proving yourself. It's about aligning your work, your health, and your purpose without apology. Key Takeaways Community combats isolation. Safe, collaborative spaces are essential for women navigating male-dominated professions. You can design your life. High-level careers and family priorities can coexist when you choose alignment over expectation. Belonging isn't up for debate. Women in surgery don't have to question whether they deserve their seat at the table. Guest Information Dr. Erin Sheffield is a board certified oral maxillofacial surgeon, speaker, educator, and advocate. Her passion is reshaping the culture of surgery by amplifying the voices of women and redefining what it means to thrive in this high demand profession. She is the founder of The Doctor Is ALL In, a wellness and leadership retreat for women in Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, and co-host of The Resting Stitch Face Podcast, where she leads unfiltered conversations about the realities of life as a woman in surgery. Through her work in mentorship, advocacy, and storytelling, Dr. Sheffield challenges outdated norms in surgery, builds community, and empowers underrepresented voices in healthcare. She practices at Quincy Medical Group, a large multi-specialty physicians group in Illinois. How to Connect with Dr. Erin Sheffield Email: erinmjsheffield@gmail.com Website: https://www.doctorisallin.com/ Instagram: @drerinsheffield How to Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/ — Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna sits down with Dr. Ann Bynum — board-certified pediatric dentist, founder, speaker, and leader — for a conversation about resilience, leadership, and what it really takes to build something lasting. From launching her practice in the late 1990s without the modern tools we rely on today to carving out space in a male-dominated field, Ann shares how she built a career defined not only by excellence, but by intention. But her story goes far beyond entrepreneurship. After a life-changing health diagnosis shortly after completing an Ironman triathlon, Ann was forced to lean on the very community she had spent years investing in. In this episode, she reflects on connection, dedication, and the mindset that has shaped both her practice and her life. This conversation is about grit, leadership, community, and the choice to pursue excellence no matter the circumstances. Key Takeaways Point 1: Make deposits in the bank of connection before you need to make withdrawals. Point 2: Grit isn't something you're born with — it's built through hard choices and consistency. Point 3: True leadership requires flexibility, mentorship, and investing in your team's growth. Guest Information Dr. Ann Bynum is a board-certified pediatric dentist, who survived raising three boys. She's been serving families in Simpsonville, South Carolina since 1997 and is a national speaker who is passionate about airway health, leadership, and helping dental teams thrive all while making it fun. How to Connect with Dr. Ann Bynum Email: dr.ann@hollytreepediatricdentistry.com Instagram: @annbynum95 How to Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/ —Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna speaks with Dr. Savanah Craig — a dentist, podcast host, and powerful new voice for early-career professionals in dentistry. Savannah shares the unfiltered side of her journey, from the hyper-competitive grind of dental school to the moments of burnout that forced her to ask: is this the life I actually want? With honesty and vulnerability, she talks about redefining success, separating identity from performance, and choosing alignment over achievement. Savanah also opens up about the story behind her podcast Beyond Graduation, and why building connection, mentorship, and community for new dentists has become a mission close to her heart. Whether you're in the thick of a career shift or just trying to hold it all together, this episode is a beautiful reminder of the strength it takes to choose a path that's truly your own — and the courage it takes to take bigger swings. Key Takeaways Point 1: Take bigger swings. Point 2: Community is critical for early-career dentists. Point 3: "Patients don't actually know if your margin is perfect… they know if you treated them kindly." Guest Information Dr. Savanah Craig is originally from Chicora, PA but has spent her higher education becoming an honorary Buckeye. Following graduation, she dedicated a year to advancing her education at Prisma Health Richland, a level-one trauma center in Columbia, SC. She is passionate about patient education and utilizes her advanced training to provide excellent care for her patients. Outside of her typical clinical hours, Dr. Craig can be found treating complex patients in the operating room at the University Of Cincinnati or collaborating on projects and podcasting. In her free time, Dr. Craig enjoys reading, exploring new restaurants, and traveling with her husband, Adam. How to Connect with Savanah Craig Instagram: @savannahcraigdds Podcast: Future Dentists: Beyond Graduation IgniteDDS: @ignitedds —Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth.We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com. Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna Scott sits down with Anne Duffy — powerhouse founder of Dental Entrepreneur Woman (DeW), advocate for women's voices, and eternal optimist. Anne shares the surprising story behind launching DeW, a movement that began with a phone call and blossomed into a nationwide community of women supporting women in dentistry. With warmth and wisdom, Anne unpacks the values that drive DeW, the magic that happens when women show up fully as themselves, and what it means to bloom later in life. Whether you're just starting out or rediscovering your spark in a new season, this conversation is a rally cry for women to keep showing up, keep telling their stories, and keep rising together. Key Takeaways Point 1: It's never too late to bloom. Point 2: Know your strengths and own them. Point 3: When one woman rises, we all rise. Guest Information Anne Duffy is the founder of DeW and a pioneer whose voice and vision have opened doors for many women in dentistry. With over 45 years of experience, Anne has worked in practices across the country and built deep, lasting relationships with dental professionals, from students and educators to innovators and industry leaders. How to Connect with Anne Duffy Website: https://dew.life/ Email: anneduffy@dew.life Social: @dewlifemag @annelduffy Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/ -- Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna sits down with her friend Leslie Costes — wife, mom of three boys, community leader, and philanthropist— for an honest conversation about navigating life's transitions. Leslie shares what it's like to raise teenage sons in today's culture, from navigating the influence of technology to adjusting to the bittersweet season of sending kids off to college. With vulnerability and wisdom, she reflects on the evolving dynamics of motherhood and the importance of raising kind human beings above all else. They also discuss her deep involvement in community service as well as the creative passions she has had the chance to pursue in this season of life. Through it all, Leslie emphasizes the importance of creativity and personal growth. Her story is a reminder that transitions, while challenging, can be the doorway to new purpose, deeper connection, and another chance to invest in yourself. Key Takeaways Point 1: You have to have the hard conversations. Point 2: Take the time to find something that lights you up and that you love. Point 3: Our connections with other women are the most powerful. Guest InformationLeslie is a wife, mom to three incredible boys, and a woman who has built a life full of service, community, and creativity. She has led booster clubs, chaired fundraisers, sat on nonprofit boards, and made space for her family and community in ways that often go unseen but never unnoticed. She is also a dog mom, a travel lover, and someone who believes in showing up wholeheartedly, whether that's at a soccer field, a gala, or around the dinner table. How to Connect with Leslie Costes Social: @mamabthree -- Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

What happens when three women with bold Enneagram 8 energy sit down to talk about identity, leadership, and the courage to show up fully as yourself? In this episode of The Story Project Podcast, host Joanna Scott is joined by Carly McGowan and Carly Mungovan from the S8E8 team. Together, they unpack what it means to thrive as women in leadership while navigating the unique strengths and challenges of being an Enneagram 8. The conversation highlights the importance of owning your directness and embracing vulnerability as a true sign of strength. This episode reveals powerful insights on radical inclusivity, leading yourself well, and staying grounded in values you refuse to compromise on. It's a powerful reminder that the world needs you exactly as you are. Key Takeaways Point 1: Enneagrams help us have a deeper understanding into the motivations behind our behaviors. Point 2: Being direct is not a weakness in the workplace. Point 3: You can do anything – but not everything. Guest Information Carly McGowan is our Lead Digital Ads Specialist — a chicken-wrangling, bread-baking homesteader who somehow thrives in both the fast lane of marketing and the slow lane of life. And Carly Mungovan is a Marketing Strategist — a plant-loving, old-soul foodie who believes strategy and hospitality belong at the same table. How to Connect with Carly McGowan & Carly Mungovan Website: https://s8e8.com/ Email: carly@s8e8.com , carlymungovan@s8e8.com Episode Highlights [36:39] "My passion is my super power." [37:03] "Vulnerability is actually the true sign of strength." [50:13] "Radical inclusivity: that everybody at the table is not only welcome, but wanted." Resources Mentioned in this Episode The Road Back to You- Ian Cron -- Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this episode of The Story Project, Dr. Zaneta Hamlin, owner of Cusp Dental Boutique, shares her personal journey of becoming a dentist, practice owner, and a woman who leads with both strength and humility. Inspired by her father, Dr. Hamlin found her calling in the fusion of creativity, compassion, and patient care. She opens up about the intentionality behind her space, the significance of the Ghanaian symbol that guides her leadership, and the bold decisions that reflected trust in her own vision over outside opinions. Together, we explore the synergy between her space and her purpose, and how courage, faith, and rest became her compass through uncertainty. Dr. Hamlin also speaks candidly about marriage, motherhood, and the weight of choosing your own path—even when others don't understand it. With moments of laughter, vulnerability, and wisdom, she reminds us that intuition is powerful, rest is necessary, and clarity often follows stillness. If you've ever needed permission to follow your heart, take a leap, or trust that a closed door is leading you somewhere better, this conversation is for you. Key Takeaways Point 1: "I learned that sometimes you have to listen and learn. Sometimes a closed door is actually for you to recognize that there's something else that's there for you that you don't know." Point 2: "It may not feel like it right now, but it's going to be fine." Point 3: "Follow your heart and let your intuition fully guide you." Guest Information Dr. Zaneta Hamlin is a second generation dentist who is dedicated to prevention and open to alternative scientifically proven means to progressive care. She is a high achiever while maintaining a humble yet strong demeanor when engaging her patients and team. Aside from her family and a productive day, wine and handbags make her smile. How to Connect with Dr. Zaneta Hamlin Website: https://www.cuspdentalboutique.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cuspdentalboutique/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zaneta-hamlin-dds-fagd-ficd-45405b9a/ Email: zaneta.hamlin@gmail.com Episode Highlights [22:35] Dr. Hamlin describes her passion behind curating a great patient experience. [35:13] Joanna speaks on the importance of women leaders pouring into their employees. [48:33] An honest conversation about letting yourself express real emotion. -- Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

In this emotional and deeply inspiring episode of The Story Project, Dr. Cerisa Clouse shares her powerful journey through heartbreak, healing, and hope after losing her dental practice building to the devastating Pacific Palisades wildfires. A former U.S. Navy officer turned practice owner, Dr. Clouse opens up about the unexpected path to ownership, the toll of burnout from constantly pouring into others, and the uncomfortable yet necessary self-reflection that transformed her both personally and professionally. Her vulnerability and insight into the realities of leadership and loss offer a raw, authentic glimpse into the resilience it takes to start over. Dr. Clouse's story reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there are chapters still waiting to be written. With unwavering faith and courage, she walks us through the day her practice building burned down, the strength it took to care for her team first, and the beauty of humanity she witnessed in the aftermath. This is an episode about perseverance, rediscovering purpose, and believing—despite unimaginable challenges—that "it's going to be okay." This episode offers inspiration that will linger long after the episode ends. Key Takeaways Point 1: "That is one of the biggest aspects of leadership that I think we all have to learn—it has to begin with us. We have to work on our own wholeness, health, and happiness in all the ways, so we can pour into everyone around us. Otherwise, we can quickly become burned out". Point 2: "I don't know in what direction, but I know that I just have to keep going." Point 3: "When you're sitting in those seasons of discouragement or darkness, know that you are growing through that." Guest Information Cerisa Clouse is a believer, wife, dog-mom, daughter of immigrants, proud Navy Veteran, Stanford grad, USC-trained dentist, business owner, baker, weightlifter, and wannabe golfer who loves comedy...and admires stand-up comedians and chefs, among many others. How to Connect with Dr. Cerisa Clouse Website: https://www.thepalidentists.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcerisa/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cerisa-clouse-dds-formerly-moncayo-67106a14/ Email: dr.cerisa@gmail.com Episode Highlights [33:19] The story of how Dr. Clouse unexpectedly acquired a dental practice and how it was a catalyst for self reflection. [40:29] Diving into the meaning of biomimetic dentistry and the significance of this approach to restorative dentistry. [46:31] The devastating story of Dr. Clouse's practice burning down in the Pacific Palisades wildfires. Resources Mentioned in this Episode LA Strong Foundation Steadfast LA Pali4Pali -- The Story Project is a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com. -- If you're listening or watching this podcast, I only have one request from you. Subscribe to The Story Project podcast and leave a review if you heard something helpful from one of my brilliant guests. This podcast is for women leaders in dentistry, so feel free to share this episode with all your friends in the profession. Let's be fearless together, ladies! See you next time! Connect With Joanna Website: https://www.joannascott.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannafscott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joannafscott • • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-scott-052a0812/

In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna sits down with Ariel Kuhn, Creative Strategist at Studio EightyEight, to talk about the magic behind Brand Sessions—a custom experience designed to help leaders in the profession discover their brand story with clarity and authenticity. Ariel shares how the Discovery phase is all about asking the right questions to uncover a client's "why," creating a strong foundation for building a meaningful and memorable brand. Together, they pull back the curtain on what it's like to experience a Brand Shoot at Studio EightyEight—from the intentional prep work to the fun, relaxed atmosphere on shoot day. With practical tips and personal reflections, the conversation reminds listeners that discovering your voice and owning your story is one of the most powerful things you can do for your business. Whether you're building a new brand or refreshing an existing one, this episode will leave you inspired to tell your story. Key Takeaways Point 1: The first step is to get started! Point 2: Find out what people come to you for and how to meet that need. Point 3: Make it your own. Find your voice and share it in the way that feels authentic to you because someone needs it. Guest Information Ariel Kuhn is a Creative Strategist at Studio EightyEight, photographer, writer, Enneagram 6, and a lil bit of a homebody. She's a girl mom living in Columbus, Ohio and an introvert. Ariel grew up wanting to be a teacher but switched her major to English. Around that time, she picked up a camera to play around with and went on her merry way. After a windy road and a few jobs in both the creative and education spaces, she now gets to teach, write, photograph, and use the visual and strategic creativity she loves. Today, Ariel walks with clients through a process to bring their own brand to life. How to Connect with Ariel Kuhn Website: https://www.s8e8.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arielviewcreative/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielmkuhn/ Email: ariel@s8e8.com Episode Highlights [18:30]: Discovery tools Studio 8E8 uses for brand building [21:51]: The creative process of working with women and women-owned businesses [22:50] Brand Session best moments — Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession. Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry. This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.