Santa Cruz SBDC

Seal Rock Dental Care

“Sometimes it’s not just about asking questions but more about checking in. Getting that emotional support and mentorship from advisors at the SBDC was the biggest thing for me.”

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Dr. Joshua Sanchez, a first-generation doctor and son of immigrant parents, always had a passion for science and a love for interacting with patients. This led him to establish Seal Rock Dental Care, a thriving dental practice that he runs with his wife. After remodeling an old practice with his own hands, he transformed it into a welcoming space for his patients.

However, despite his medical expertise, Joshua found himself in unfamiliar territory when it came to running a business. That’s when he discovered the Santa Cruz Small Business Development Center.

Joshua first worked with advisor Keith Holtaway, who helped him create a robust business plan and set him on the right path. Keith then directed Joshua to Benjamin Slade, who became an invaluable resource for navigating the complexities of managing employees.

Benjamin helped Joshua understand the intricacies of running a business with employees, a concept that was entirely new to him. He guided Joshua through the process of setting up new hire paperwork and educated him on completing it correctly. Benjamin also emphasized the importance of setting and reinforcing expectations with staff, enabling them to cover different roles within the team.

With the guidance and support of the Santa Cruz SBDC, Seal Rock Dental Care has experienced significant growth and success. The dental practice has expanded its team, adding three full-time employees and two part-time staff members. This expansion has not only allowed Seal Rock Dental Care to serve more patients but also contributed to a substantial increase in annual sales, which have risen by $20,000.

Today, Seal Rock Dental Care stands as a testament to the power of passion, hard work, and the right guidance. Joshua hopes to continue to treat patients and build a legacy that his daughter can be proud of. He is committed to maintaining the family-oriented ethos of his practice, recognizing that the love and support of family are at the heart of any successful endeavor. Along with his partner, Joann, Joshua looks forward to continuing to serve the Santa Cruz community for many years to come.

“Sometimes it’s not just about asking questions but more about checking in. Getting that emotional support and mentorship from advisors at the SBDC was the biggest thing for me”