017:The Joy-Filled Dentist: Building a Career Rooted in Service and Purpose | Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas—public health dentist, advocate, and unapologetic joy-bringer—to talk about what it really looks like to build a fulfilling dental career rooted in service, authenticity, and humor.A 2018 graduate who now serves a Native American community in El Paso, Dr. Maestas has carved out a career in public health that defies the traditional “private practice or bust” path. She’s passionate about access to care, mentorship, organized dentistry, and reminding new grads that dentistry can still be fun.We talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, finding your footing as a young dentist, using social media as a vehicle for connection and laughter, and why being involved in policy and organized dentistry isn’t just for “the old guard.”If you’ve ever questioned your place in the profession, felt the burnout creeping in, or needed a reminder that purpose still exists in patient care—this one’s for you.You’ll Learn:How Dr. Maestas found her calling in public health dentistryWhat working in underserved communities has taught her about empathy and leadershipHow to find joy and humor in the daily chaos of practiceWhy organized dentistry and policy work matter (and how to get involved)How to navigate imposter syndrome and build confidence early in your careerWhy mentorship and community are the real antidotes to burnoutThe ongoing gender biases in dentistry—and how women are changing that narrative🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.comWe Talk About:00:00 Intro 01:00 Meet Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas – public health dentist & joy ambassador 03:00 Why she chose public health over private practice 06:00 Lessons from serving underserved communities 09:00 The joy and challenge of new grad life in dentistry 12:00 Using humor and Instagram to connect with peers 14:00 Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt 17:00 Finding healthy outlets outside of dentistry 19:00 Peloton talk + self-care for dentists 22:00 Why organized dentistry matters (and what needs to change) 26:00 Advocacy, representation, and the power of service 28:00 Mentorship and women’s empowerment in dentistry 31:00 Facing gender bias and building resilience 35:00 Final reflections on joy, purpose, and giving backConnect with Dr. Tanya Sue MaestasInstagram: @drtanyasuedds LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tanyasuemaestasConnect with BrandiLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino Instagram: instagram.com/brandi.marzolino Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com https://leadhershipexperience.com Phone: 616-682-6222