Wired for Success: The Dr. Ethan Larson Journey

Welcome to the GrowOrtho Podcast presented by HIP. In today’s episode, we have the privilege of diving into the journey of Dr. Ethan Larson, an orthodontist with a remarkable story that takes us through family legacy, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of excellence in orthodontics. The Family Legacy Dr. Ethan Larson began his orthodontic journey in a unique way—within the context of a family legacy. Growing up, his father was an orthodontist, and this early exposure played a significant role in shaping his future. He had the opportunity to be involved in various aspects of orthodontic work, from crafting appliances to understanding the impact of orthodontic care on young patients’ lives. Although he didn’t initially consider orthodontics as his path, these experiences laid the foundation for what would become his career. The Orthodontic Path Dr. Larson’s journey began with dental school and orthodontic residency. These years were marked by challenges, financial constraints, and family responsibilities. He was determined to reduce his debt burden and ensure financial stability for his growing family. Despite the hardships, Dr. Larson’s drive to succeed, coupled with his background in lab work and a strong family support system, propelled him forward. Legacy and Entrepreneurship After completing his education, Dr. Larson purchased an existing practice in Washington, which had been thriving for over 35 years under the leadership of his mentor, Dr. Greg Sutherland. As he transitioned into the role of practice owner, Dr. Larson faced the dual responsibilities of being a clinician and a leader. He realized that this required a balance between maintaining clinical excellence and fostering a cohesive team culture. The Power of Entrepreneurship Dr. Larson’s entrepreneurial spirit remained alive as he transitioned to Arizona, where he purchased another practice and a building for a new location. He recognized the untapped potential in underserved areas and saw the opportunity to positively impact more lives through orthodontic care. His approach emphasized delivering exceptional orthodontic services while ensuring that growth and expansion didn’t compromise quality. The Balance of Purpose and Growth Dr. Larson’s journey is a testament to the complexity of entrepreneuria