A conversation between Dr. Cedric Lewis and Dr. Eric Block
A couple of dentists with multiple side gigs
Eric shares his own experience of having multiple side gigs alongside his dental practice. The episode ends with planning the interview structure and contact information exchange between the two speakers.
Leadership
Ced also talks about Dental Sherpas, a podcast he co-hosted that focused on helping dentists achieve dental freedom by improving management and leadership skills. The podcast is currently on hiatus but will be returning soon. Many dentists struggle with the business side of dentistry as they are not taught it in school, but Ced believes that being a successful dentist requires strong leadership abilities. He suggests that focusing on personal growth and learning how to relate to people better can lead to success.
Dr. Lewis also emphasizes the importance of dentists developing communication skills to succeed outside of their clinical work. It can be so valuable for a dentist to take courses or seek mentorship to hone their skills in public speaking, leadership, and human behavior. These skills will enhance your ability to relate to patients and lead a successful practice.
Mastermind and mentorship groups
Ced Lewis also discusses two mastermind groups he is a part of. The first is Access Ventures, an investment group for dentists, doctors, and healthcare professionals to learn more about investment opportunities in real estate, private lending, and technology. Access Ventures aims to keep its members out of trouble by providing resources for making informed decisions and performing the necessary due diligence regarding investments.
The other mastermind group, potentially titled "Living 2.0”, will start in January. This platform is for like-minded individuals in their 50s and 60s who strive for self-improvement. Dr. Lewis strives to help his members find meaning, vision, and personal growth in their professional and personal lives.
Networking and peer engagement
Dr. Lewis discusses the importance of finding like-minded entrepreneurs and building a supportive community.
This concept is about finding your tribe or clan as an entrepreneur to share experiences, ideas, and inspiration. It's a group of people that “get” you. They understand the struggles of what you are trying to accomplish as an entrepreneur.
Being an entrepreneur brings joy and satisfaction, but you can’t do it alone. Entrepreneurs need camaraderie and motivation, which can be found by engaging with peers and networking events. He emphasizes the importance of having a growth mindset, learning from failures, and being open to new opportunities.
Advise for young dental professionals.
Dr. Lewis emphasized the importance of seeing every opportunity as a learning experience. Embrace a growth mindset and be open to continuous learning and improvement. Don't fear failure; it can be a stepping stone to success and personal growth.
Conclusion
To follow up with Dr. Ced Lewis to explore further collaboration opportunities and to stay updated on his podcast and other ventures you can email him at dr.lewis@kokuasmiles.com.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Eric Block DMD, CAGS, FICOI, FICD, FAADS, FIADFE
Dr. Eric Block is a full-time practicing dentist in Acton, Massachusetts, and a husband and father of two kids. He is known as The Stress-Free Dentist and hosts the Stress-Free Dentist Podcast.
He is the author of three non-fiction books and one children’s book. He lectures nationwide, helping dentists become more efficient, productive, and less stressed. He co-founded the International Academy of Dental Life Coaches or www.IADLC.com, which matches dental professionals with life coaches who understand dentistry.
He is a wellness ambassador for the American Dental Association and is a former chairman of the Health and Wellness Committee for the Massachusetts Dental Society. He can be reached at eric@thestressfreedentist.com