🎙️ The Pivot: Finding Your "Why" & The Origin of Smile & Co. (Rewind)

"We are not promised tomorrow, so don't get stuck in the day-to-day stupid stuff. Go for your dreams."

In the spirit of our favorite word here at The Making Of—PIVOT—Collin takes the mic for a solo intro to reflect on an emotional and transformative 2025. Between the rush of the holidays and the heavy reality of personal loss and health battles within our circle, this year has forced us all to pause and ask the big question: What is your "Why"?

In this episode, Collin shares a vulnerable update on why this community means so much to her and why it’s vital to set intentions before 2026 arrives. Then, we are taking it back to the very beginning. We are re-releasing Dr. Ashley Joves’ very first interview with Michael Arias of The Dental Marketer Podcast. Hear the raw, early story of the Smile & Co. build-out—a reminder that every expert was once a beginner.

In this episode, we cover:

• The Reality of 2025: Collin opens up about a year riddled with family loss and health scares, and how those moments shift your perspective.
• The Power of Community: why the heart of The Making Of isn't clinical—it’s the retreats, the connections, and the like-minded "go-getters" who have each other's backs.
• The Origin Story: A look back at Ashley’s first startup journey—the construction, the fears, and the vision before Smile & Co. was a reality.
• Setting Intentions: Why we need to evaluate our "Why" before 2026 kicks off to stay focused on what actually matters.

Quotes from the Intro:

"I’ve been doing this for a very long time. But the thing I love most about being in dental is not clinical. I love this community." — Collin

"Evaluate your why... it can get so easy to get caught up in the runaround and lose focus. Remind yourself what matters before 2026 starts."

Connect with us:

• Listen to the Bloom Dental Co. Season: If you haven't heard Dr. Toni Torres' journey yet, go back and catch up!
• Reach Out: We are here for you. Email us, DM us, or reach out to a peer. You aren't in this alone.

As you head into the holidays, hug your loved ones, ignore the "day-to-day stupid stuff," and remember why you started. Happy Holidays! 

This episode is made possible by: 

Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl 

Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof

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