Episode Title: Dr. Sonya Wintzell: Her Journey from Associate to Partner to Owner

Description 
In this episode of The Independent Dental Practice Podcast, Dr. Sonny Spera sits down with Dr. Sonya Wintzell to unpack her journey from a new dental school graduate to practice owner. With clarity, honesty, and passion, Dr. Wintzell shares how mentorship, open communication, and intentional leadership shaped her path. Whether you’re a new associate, seasoned owner, or in transition, this episode offers a roadmap for navigating the business side of dentistry while staying true to your values.

Highlights
Dr. Wintzell reflects on the value of mentorship, her early experience with a fee-for-service model, and the structured pathway her predecessor created for her to eventually become a partner and then sole owner. She breaks down how clarity of vision, ongoing communication, and mutual investment in CE helped make the transition seamless. Her four-part formula for successful partnership—mentorship, CE investment, equal patient treatment, and a mapped ownership path—is packed with insights for dentists at any stage.

Personal Passions
Dr. Wintzell speaks passionately about creating a positive, patient-centered practice culture, mentoring other dentists, and building strong dental teams. She also discusses the fulfillment she finds in contributing to the profession by helping the next generation of dentists find joy and purpose in ownership.

Podcast Vision
The conversation reinforces the podcast’s mission: to empower independent dentists through honest conversations about practice ownership, leadership, and long-term success. Dr. Wintzell’s story exemplifies the mindset and systems that support independent dentistry in today’s changing landscape.

Takeaways
Clear communication can change the course of your career. Associates must act like owners from day one if they want to be one. Owners must invest in mentorship and training to build the next generation. Practice culture, leadership, and shared philosophy are as critical as clinical skills in building a thriving, values-driven dental business.

Connect with Dr. Sonny Spera:
📧 [email protected]
📧 [email protected]

Connect with Dr. Sonya
📧 [email protected] ___________________________________________________________________

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