WHAT IS YOUR “WHY”?
After two decades of consulting in corporate dentistry and practicing clinical hygiene for 35 years, I made the pivotal decision to launch my own consulting firm. From the outset of my career, I recognized the prevalent communication hurdles in dentistry, especially across different generations.
That realization fueled my mission, which is twofold: Firstly, I am committed to helping healthcare leaders and teams improve their communication skills to boost their overall success. Secondly, I aim to coach individuals in honing their presentation abilities for impactful public speaking engagements. It’s a journey driven by my passion for bridging communication gaps and empowering others to excel.
HOW DID YOU BECOME A DENTAL ENTREPRENEUR?
Combining my extensive clinical expertise in periodontology and implant prosthetics with a background in leadership, and corporate training/speaking, I ventured into entrepreneurship in the dental field—a realm I am deeply passionate about. Despite launching in 2019, just two months before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I persevered. Throughout my life, I have often been described as “tenacious,” both professionally and personally, a trait I wholeheartedly embrace. I believe in my ability to tackle any challenge head-on and am unafraid of setbacks if they propel me towards helping others.
HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE?
My lifelong dedication to competitive sports has played a significant role in finding balance in my life. From the age of 8, I have been deeply involved in competitive swimming, and later transitioned that passion into triathlons. Which lead me to IRONMAN competitions. The valuable lessons I gleaned from training for IRONMAN events served as inspiration for my book, which delves into strategies for ironing out communication challenges within dental teams.
Embracing the outdoors is another key aspect of maintaining equilibrium amidst work and travel demands. My husband and I prioritize activities such as mountain biking, snowboarding, swimming, and adventures with friends, which strengthen our bond and rejuvenate our spirits. Importantly, I have cultivated the ability to confidently decline commitments, ensuring that my work-life balance remains intact.
HOW DID YOU MEET YOUR PARTNER IN WORK AND IN LIFE?
I operate all facets of my consulting firm independently, except for financial matters, which are expertly managed by my husband, who serves as the CFO.
My husband and I first crossed paths while competing in a volleyball tournament at Dewey Beach, DE, thanks to mutual friends who orchestrated our meeting. It turned out to be serendipitous, as we tied the knot on Halloween just a year later, embarking on a whirlwind adventure. Within days of our wedding, we relocated to Singapore, where we spent six unforgettable years. Throughout our 32-year marriage, we have explored the globe together, and now we have settled in Park City, UT—a haven perfectly suited to our shared love for outdoor pursuits.
HOW DO YOU KNOW YOUR VALUE AND OVERCOME BARRIERS?
My husband, alongside my robust support network and involvement in mastermind groups, forms the cornerstone of my journey, where I openly share both my triumphs and tribulations. Constantly seeking feedback from clients allows me to refine not only myself but also my business strategies. I passionately believe in first comprehending barriers before strategically navigating towards viable solutions and growth.
WHAT ARE YOUR STRENGTHS?
According to StrengthsFinder, which I found fully accurate and insightful, I possess key strengths that shape my approach to life and work. Self-Assurance gives me confidence in decision-making, while my Learner trait drives a thirst for continuous growth. With a Maximizer mindset, I focus on strengths, aiming for excellence. I excel as a Strategic, navigating complexities adeptly, and as a Relator, I find fulfillment in meaningful connections and collaborative achievements.
WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?
Throughout my journey, numerous mentors and influencers have offered invaluable guidance and wisdom. While it is challenging to single out just one, if pressed, I would highlight the timeless advice of staying true to oneself and consistently choosing the high road. This principle has been a guiding light, reminding me to uphold integrity, authenticity, and ethical conduct in all endeavors. It is a reminder to navigate life’s twists and turns with grace and dignity, ultimately shaping my character and defining my path.
WHO IS YOUR MENTOR IN YOUR CAREER AND IN LIFE?
Noel Paschke has been an integral part of my professional journey for an impressive 27 years, wearing multiple hats as a boss, friend, colleague, and mentor. She has developed an in-depth understanding of my strengths, weaknesses, aspirations, and values. What sets her apart as a mentor is her collaborative approach to guidance. Rather than dictating directives, she fosters an environment of mutual respect and open communication, where ideas are shared openly. Noel’s mentorship has provided invaluable support, insight, and encouragement, serving as a steady anchor throughout my career journey. I am profoundly grateful for her enduring presence and influence, which have played a pivotal role in shaping my path.
My parents were also my guiding mentors, offering unbiased support and helping me navigate life’s challenges with clarity and resilience. Additionally, my husband has played a crucial role as both a partner and mentor, offering unwavering support and complementary strengths throughout our journey together. Together, they have shaped my perspective, instilled values, and provided invaluable guidance, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in fostering personal and professional growth.
Lisa Copeland, RDH, CSP is renowned as a leading authority in dental team communication and serves as the CEO of Communicate With Influence.
Not only is she a Generation X professional, but she is also an accomplished author, IRONMAN, coach, and an international speaker. Her diverse global experience spans from the US and Europe to Southeast Asia, enabling her to bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge to her coaching.
Throughout her varied career, Lisa has held multiple roles within dental teams, a fact that amplifies her coaching efficacy and allows her to relate directly to her clients’ challenges and triumphs. Dedicated to promoting optimized communication strategies, she passionately guides dental teams towards achieving heightened profitability and enhanced performance.
Among her many achievements, Lisa holds the distinguished CSP Award from the National Speakers Association, an honor bestowed upon fewer than 12% of speakers worldwide. Impressively, she stands as one of only three Registered Dental Hygienists globally to have earned this esteemed accolade.
Fun Facts:
• Halloween is my favorite holiday
• Married on Oct 31
• Grew up in Scranton PA (where they film the TV show “The Office”)
• Practiced as a Dental Hygienist for 30 years
• Lived in Singapore for 6 years, Seattle for 20, and recently moved to Park City
• Competed/finished 2 IRONMAN events
SOCIAL MEDIA:
Webpage: Communicate With Influence
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CommunicateWithInfluence
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IrongalCopeland
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisagcopeland
YouTube http://www.youtube.com/user/RDHLisa
Instagram: http://instagram.com/communicatewithinfluence
