How can the skills of discipline and resilience honed in sports translate to the dental practice? In this first ever episode of "Athletes in Dentistry," Dr. Dave Striegel unveils the unique concept behind the podcast: leveraging the shared lessons of sports and dentistry to elevate performance. With his rich background in sports psychology and considerable experience coaching dental teams, Dr. Dave sets the stage for how athletic experiences can provide deep insights for the dental community. This episode features Dr. LeeAnne Sera, who recounts her inspiring journey from an elite athlete to a celebrated dentist, infusing her story with practical wisdom and personal anecdotes.

Dr. LeeAnne Sera reminisces about her formative years in gymnastics and team sports such as volleyball and basketball, which laid the groundwork for her discipline, body awareness, and unwavering resilience. Her athletic prowess peaked during her college years at USC, where she contributed to winning two national basketball championships. Transitioning into dentistry, Dr. LeeAnne opens up about the poignant moment her father's health issues influenced her to join his practice, as well as the indispensable skills from her sports career that have propelled her professional success. She highlights the critical importance of resilience, trust, and the ability to be coached, all of which are crucial for managing a harmonious and high-performing dental team. Dr. LeeAnne's story is a testament to the powerful intersection of sports and dentistry, with the reminder to be present with patients and persistently strive for excellence.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How sports psychology principles can enhance dental practice performance
• The impact of athletic discipline and resilience in professional life
• The importance of trust and coachability in building a successful dental team
• Insights on balancing personal and professional growth
• Dr. LeeAnne Sera's personal journey from college athlete to successful dentist
• The role of family influence in career decisions
• Strategies for creating a supportive and cohesive team environment
• Being present and effectively interacting with patients
• Continuous improvement in both personal and professional spheres

Don't miss this captivating conversation that bridges the worlds of sports and dentistry!

Mentions and Links:

Education:
Louisiana Tech
UCSF
UC Davis
USC
Music:
Michael Jackson - Thriller
Books:
Eleven Rings: The Soul of Success