What the Fire Couldn’t Take: Rebuilding with Purpose

In this emotional and deeply inspiring episode of The Story Project, Dr. Cerisa Clouse shares her powerful journey through heartbreak, healing, and hope after losing her dental practice building to the devastating Pacific Palisades wildfires. A former U.S. Navy officer turned practice owner, Dr. Clouse opens up about the unexpected path to ownership, the toll of burnout from constantly pouring into others, and the uncomfortable yet necessary self-reflection that transformed her both personally and professionally. Her vulnerability and insight into the realities of leadership and loss offer a raw, authentic glimpse into the resilience it takes to start over.

Dr. Clouse’s story reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there are chapters still waiting to be written. With unwavering faith and courage, she walks us through the day her practice building burned down, the strength it took to care for her team first, and the beauty of humanity she witnessed in the aftermath. This is an episode about perseverance, rediscovering purpose, and believing—despite unimaginable challenges—that “it’s going to be okay.” This episode offers inspiration that will linger long after the episode ends.

Key Takeaways

• Point 1: "That is one of the biggest aspects of leadership that I think we all have to learn—it has to begin with us. We have to work on our own wholeness, health, and happiness in all the ways, so we can pour into everyone around us. Otherwise, we can quickly become burned out”.
• Point 2: “I don't know in what direction, but I know that I just have to keep going.”
• Point 3: “When you're sitting in those seasons of discouragement or darkness, know that you are growing through that.”

Guest Information

Dr. Cerisa Clouse is a believer, wife, dog-mom, daughter of immigrants, proud Navy Veteran, Stanford grad, USC-trained dentist, business owner, baker, weightlifter, and wannabe golfer who loves comedy...and admires stand-up comedians and chefs, among many others.

How to Connect with Dr. Cerisa Clouse

• Website: https://www.thepalidentists.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcerisa/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cerisa-clouse-dds-formerly-moncayo-67106a14/
• Email: dr.cerisa@gmail.com

Episode Highlights

• [33:19] The story of how Dr. Clouse unexpectedly acquired a dental practice and how it was a catalyst for self reflection.
• [40:29] Diving into the meaning of biomimetic dentistry and the significance of this approach to restorative dentistry.
• [46:31] The devastating story of Dr. Clouse’s practice burning down in the Pacific Palisades wildfires.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode

• LA Strong Foundation
• Steadfast LA
• Pali4Pali

The Story Project is a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession.

Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they’re navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the legacies they’re building—not just in their practices, but across the industry.

This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what’s possible in dentistry. To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

If you’re listening or watching this podcast, I only have one request from you. Subscribe to The Story Project podcast and leave a review if you heard something helpful from one of my brilliant guests. This podcast is for women leaders in dentistry, so feel free to share this episode with all your friends in the profession.

Let’s be fearless together, ladies! See you next time!