261: Associate to Owner, Taking the Leap

Yogi Dentist aka Dr. Jenny Perna is part of the Dental A-Team! Dr. Perna talks with Kiera about her role as an associate dentist, her hunt to buy her own practice, and the lessons she’s learning to prepare her to become a practice owner.

Some tidbits from their conversation: Dr. Perna loves the creativity of dentistry and is seeking her own narrative in the field; associate dentists can hone in on leadership skills at any time — they don’t have to wait to become the practice owner; there’ll be many speed bumps along the way to purchasing a practice and stepping into the lead dentist role, but there are even more educational resources (including the DAT, wooo!) that can help guide you.

Feel like being inspired? Press play now!

Dr. Jenny Perna grew up in Merritt Island, Florida, where she spent her early years performing as a dancer, singer, and actor. While attending the University of Florida for her undergraduate education, she worked as a dental assistant and saw how her two worlds of artistry and science could combine in a career in dentistry. Dr. Perna attended Nova Southeastern University and received her Doctorate in Dental Medicine in 2014. During her time in dental school, she participated in multiple dental missions trips and saw the life-changing impact that dentistry can have on her patients. After finishing dental school, Dr. Perna advanced her dental knowledge by completing her General Practice Residency in Asheville, NC. 

Dr. Perna currently practices in Austin, TX. She aims for every patient to feel at ease and comfortable with a complete understanding of their dental needs during their dental visits. She runs a dental instagram blog, @yogi_dentist, where she educates, entertains, and attempts to break the barrier between doctor and patient. When she’s not thinking about teeth, Dr. Perna enjoys being active, yoga, traveling,cooking, and playing with her doberman, Gio.