Designing a Culture of Purpose: Leadership Lessons from Dr. Saam Zarabi

In this Mentor of the Month conversation, Dr. Saam “Dr. Z” Zarabi shares how he went from a disrupted childhood, an early failed internet startup, and a four‑week nightmare first job to co‑founding Rodeo Dental, a fast‑growing, purpose‑driven group practice serving mostly underserved and Medicaid families. He talks about the mentors and mastermind groups that shaped him, the origin of Rodeo’s “Disneyland‑level” patient experience, building and motivating a 1,000‑person culture, and why doing good in the community is central to long‑term success. Packed with real stories, hard‑won lessons, and practical insights on leadership, partnership, and culture, this episode is a roadmap for dentists and entrepreneurs who want to build something bigger than themselves.