Continue to test ideas, ask for advice/mentorships and never ever give up.
Dr. Cameron Clokie is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, scientist and serial entrepreneur. He is the CEO of Induce Biologics Inc., a regenerative medicine company focused on innovative solutions for musculoskeletal reconstruction. For three decades he was involved in academic dentistry and clinical practice, most recently being named as the Head of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery in 1998 and then as Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Toronto until his retirement from academics in 2017. He has also held positions on the boards or scientific advisory boards of several companies.
He has published many papers and made numerous presentations, both nationally and internationally on bone reconstruction and regenerative medicine. As a holder of 25 US and international existing and/or pending patents, including those related to bone healing, he has been able to successfully develop strategic alliances with businesses and transfer his considerable knowledge and ingenuity into commercially viable enterprises.
When did you decide you wanted to be a doctor?
Very early on in my undergraduate studies, I realized I had a passion for helping other people and was very interested in internal medicine. Becoming a surgeon was something that really ignited the passion I have for medicine and technology.
What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?
My typical day is very busy. I try to have a good work life balance, so during a typical work day I devote 100% to my patients and practice. Which means I have full days of patient visits, classroom lectures and time set aside to continue educating myself on new technological advances in medicine.
How do you bring ideas to life?
I tend to be on the analytical side so I usually research the ins and outs of an idea before I execute any business ideas.
What’s one trend that really excites you?
The effect of the computer in the field of dentistry has been increasing. One of the most recent trends I’ve been following has been advances in 3D imaging and assisted surgical instrumentation. I truly believe the use of computers can lead to better patient care and better outcomes. I’m excited to see the development of robotic surgery technology within the dentistry field.
What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?
I really enjoying starting my day with a cup of coffee and searching the web for news on how our industry is evolving which helps me stay ahead of the game, as well as share with my students.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Travel more while you have the chance because I love to travel the world, but don’t seem to have enough time to just take a few weeks off consecutively. That’s why I’ve really worked hard to maintain a healthy work life balance.
Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on.
Canada is a beautiful country and I think everyone should experience at least a full season up here.
As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?
Continue to test ideas, ask for advice/mentorships and never ever give up. At the end of the day, all your hard work will pay off and you will be able to look back and be proud of all you’ve accomplished.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? Please explain how.
Relationships are key. I try to make it a point to maintain business relationships with colleagues, former mentors, and students.
What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?
My first dental practice didn’t work out as I had hoped. I was trying to do it all on my own and quickly realized it’s okay to learn on business partners and associates. So once I realized that, I created a great partnership with a fellow dental surgeon and we quickly grew our practice.
What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey
Connect:
Mario Schulzke is the Founder of ideamensch, which he started a decade ago to learn from entrepreneurs and give them a platform for their ideas.