What story are you writing that you'll be proud to tell your grandkids? In this milestone 100th episode, discover the decision-making framework that transforms how you approach every choice in your dental practice and life.
After six years and 100 episodes, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas step back from clinical techniques to explore something more profound: the legacy we're creating through the courage we demonstrate and the authenticity we express. What begins as a conversation about preserving loved ones' voices on old cassettes evolves into a revolutionary framework for decision-making that cuts through fear, overthinking, and playing small.
The core insight? Live your life in a way that you're actually proud to tell your grandkids. This simple question becomes a powerful filter for choices both personal and professional in dental practice. Should you speak up about that ethical concern? Pursue that innovative treatment approach? Redesign your practice to align with your values? Ask yourself: What story am I creating?
Dr. House shares the profound experience of hearing her late father's voice on coaching videos from the 1990s—a reminder that the wisdom and authenticity we express today become the inheritance we leave tomorrow. This vulnerable moment opens a broader conversation about how dental professionals can ensure their legacy extends beyond clinical excellence to encompass the whole person they've become.
The episode tackles a powerful truth revealed by someone facing mortality: "I didn't regret anything that I did. I regretted things that I didn't do." This becomes a clarion call for dental professionals to step off the sideline, share their message imperfectly, and live authentically even when outcomes are uncertain. Whether you're experiencing dental burnout, questioning your path, or simply wondering if there's more to practice than production numbers, this conversation offers clarity through the legacy lens.
✨ KEY TAKEAWAYS:
• The "Grandkids Framework" for decision-making: Before major choices, ask "How will I explain this to my grandchildren?" - transforms ethical dilemmas, career pivots, and practice decisions [6:33]
• We don't regret what we tried and failed at; we regret dreams never pursued - reframes risk-taking in dental practice and authentic leadership [8:37]
• "Cheap lessons vs. expensive lessons": Learning to pivot, persist, and stay authentic costs less early in your career than building a practice you'll need to redesign later [13:36]
• The compound effect of showing up: Six years and 100 episodes later, meaningful impact exists simply because they made the decision to begin imperfectly [16:47]
• Your patients are full of wisdom and stories - creating space for authentic connection transforms practice dynamics and professional fulfillment [0:41]
👨⚕️ ABOUT THE HOSTS:
Dr. Allison House is a practicing dentist with over 24 years of experience, organizational leadership in dental associations, and a commitment to ethical practice and patient-centered care. She brings pragmatic wisdom on building sustainable practice models that honor practitioners' values.
Shawn Zajas is a dental marketing expert and authentic brilliance strategist who helps dental professionals discover their unique voice and build brands aligned with their authentic self. He brings entrepreneurial insight and strategic business perspective focused on transformation before transaction.
💬 What story are you currently writing through your dental practice? What would you want your grandchildren to know about how you showed up professionally? Share in the comments - your insight might inspire another practitioner to step into their authentic brilliance.
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