At 42, I stumbled into the world of dentistry—a realm far removed from my past life selling prescription drugs (legally!) and everything from cheese to chips to pantyhose. My brother, “Freddy the Great,” was destined for dentistry and became a real-life dentist. Me? Not so much.
What began as an accidental detour turned into a transformative journey—one that showed me success isn’t just about expertise, but about the connections we forge.
Trying desperately to fit in, I quickly learned that success doesn’t come from mastering technical jargon or projecting perfection. It comes from vulnerability, authenticity, and the courage to embrace our imperfections. That mindset allowed me to truly listen and offer real-life, tailored solutions.
It was the warm, welcoming dental community of northern Ontario that helped me understand something essential: when I stopped trying to impress and started genuinely listening, something magical happened. No one was looking for a polished performance—they were drawn to genuine human interaction, real value, and a bit of unscripted fun.
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I’ve come to believe that every professional journey is, at its core, a human journey. Competitors, suppliers, colleagues, patients—every interaction offered a chance to learn, grow, and connect. My initial uncertainty turned out to be an unexpected strength, transforming knowledge gaps into bridges of understanding. Relationships became the real curriculum, teaching me that success has more to do with how deeply we connect than how much we know.
In this dental world, it wasn’t just about procedures and technical skills. It was about creating moments of trust, comfort, and care.
Over the years, I found fulfillment not in titles or accolades, but in the lives touched and the relationships built. From becoming a VP/GM to stepping into a COO role, each step was guided by one simple principle: people over process.
Now, at 62—when many are choosing retirement—I find myself embracing yet another meaningful opportunity. Not out of professional ambition, but from a desire to stay engaged and connected.
We don’t always choose our paths—sometimes, they choose us. Dentistry taught me that. When approached with an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to connect, I discovered something far more valuable than a paycheque.
I never set out to be in dentistry. It wasn’t a calling like it was for my brother. It was just another job. But what kept me here were the people: the care, the humor, the lessons, and the connections.
Sure, I still can’t casually drop “alveolar augmentation” into conversation. But I found a career where smiles—both literal and metaphorical—matter. A place where connection, growth, and unexpected joy flourish.
This industry? It’s a good place to be.
About the author:
Kevin is a “well-seasoned” managing partner, territory, personnel manager and now COO with a demonstrated history of success in the medical device and CPG industries. Proven skills in business planning, culture development, manufacturing management and sales operations, he’s having a difficult time retiring.