The Dentist Who Almost Wasn't — Dr. Shivani on New Grad Life, Imposter Syndrome & Building a Brand That's Unapologetically You
Dr. Shivani Tumukuntala, DDS
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What happens when the woman who was obsessed with everyone's teeth refuses to become a dentist? She becomes a dentist, of course—but not without a detour through pre-med, a last-minute pivot during her senior year of undergrad, four years at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, a stunning Indian wedding, and a move to Dallas to start her career from scratch.
Dr. Shivani Tumukuntala is a first-year associate dentist, a rising personal brand, and a woman building her life on her own terms. In this conversation, she and Joanna discuss her journey from pre-med to dentistry, what dental school actually prepares you for (and what it absolutely doesn't), navigating imposter syndrome as a new grad, the power of community, and why she believes the most underrated skill in the profession isn't clinical—it's communication.
She's honest about the hard parts: building a life in a new city, making friends, battling comparison on social media, and figuring out her personal brand in real time. And she's equally clear about where she's headed: toward entrepreneurship, toward giving back to her cultural community, and toward creating a version of dentistry that reflects who she is.
This one is for every woman who has ever questioned her path, only to realize she was heading exactly where she was meant to be.
Key Takeaways
Guest Information
Originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, Dr. Shivani Tumukuntala traded the Midwest for the energy of the South. She has loved settling into the Dallas area as she starts her dental career.She’s a firm believer in staying active and curious. Whether she’s trying out a new workout or hitting the airport to explore a new destination, she’s always looking for the next adventure. Dr. Shivani Tumukuntala has a huge passion for travel and loves experiencing different cultures and cuisines.Dr. Shivani Tumukuntala says life is all about that balance between a rewarding career in dentistry and making time for the things that keep her inspired: health, wellness, and a good adventure.
