Q&A WITH DRS. SARAH FOX AND JEFF BROERMANN
We are in awe of all that Drs. Sarah Fox and Jeff Broermann juggle. With a successful dental practice, numerous community passion projects, and seven boys, they truly embody doing it all! We sat down with them to chat all things work, family, and Tulsa.
How long have you each been in pediatric dentistry?
We graduated dental school in 2004. Sarah finished residency from Ohio State University in 2006 with a Masters in Science and Jeff completed a fellowship from Ohio State in 2006.
What inspired you to open your own practice?
Being small business owners has given us the freedom to make our practice a true reflection of the people we are. Every facet of the brand has been carefully and purposefully chosen by the two of us. Although that can be time consuming and overwhelming, we think it helps make the environment and atmosphere exactly what WE want. Being our own bosses is also critical when raising 7 children!!! We have more flexibility to spend quality time with our kiddos and not miss out on too many school activities.
What is unique about Fox Broermann Pediatric Dentistry?
Our practice is a blend of two (now retired) amazing pediatric dental offices with a combined working history of 70 plus years. Include our 12 years in private practice- and you have a rich history and wealth of knowledge in one place. I also think that since we are husband and wife- the feeling is really comfortable and family like. Its not uncommon to find Dr. B story telling about our children or experiences- which really helps connect us to our patients and their families.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Hmmm, there are so many rewarding things. Probably at the top is making patients and parents less anxious. And watching kiddos grow up in our practice- seeing them as young children and then as college young adults is so fun!
The two of you are partners in marriage and in your business. How do you find a balance between your work relationship and personal one?
Despite trying hard to keep the two separate, both bleed over into each other. Which, isn’t that big of a deal! We have very different personalities, strengths and weaknesses. Naturally, we lean heavily into those. And like most successful relationships- it just balances out without too much thought.
You have 7 boys as well! How do you balance family life with a crazy work schedule?
We have a LOT of amazing help with the boys and dear friends that help shuttle for sports and activities. And we delegate as many things out so that the time spent at home is truly quality with our kids.
You are both very involved in the community. Tell us what local organizations you are passionate about.
Our extended family was affected by congenital heart defects when my sister lost her son at 18 months old. She lives in St. Louis and created a Foundation (Mighty Oakes Heart Foundation) that raises money (and awareness) for CHD’s. She writes grants with the money she has raised and gives assistance to families that are struggling with the burdens of life while caring for a child with complicated heart issues. A Tulsa family (Natalie and Ben Alexander) was a recipient several years ago. Since then (Sawyer, their son is doing amazing now), they created a Foundation – Hearts of Steel. They raise money here in Tulsa to help local families who are in need of financial support while their child is fighting for their life. Ben and Natalie are amazing people doing amazing things!!!!
What does a typical day look like for each of you?
The weekday starts early for Jeff. He is on his Peloton at 5:00 am before he heads to the office for an early morning sedation. I get the kids off to school before I head out the door to work. We have a quick morning meeting with all the staff to set the intentions for the day then it’s busy with teeth until 5:30 pm. Most nights there is a home cooked meal at the kitchen island or table (depending on who is home) and homework being started between picking up from sports. Sports and homework take up the night. Lights are out for the kids and I’m usually getting a work out in before bedtime.
When you’re not working, what do you like to do?
Exercise, Jeff is OBSESSED with cooking and all things surrounding that, reading, playing tennis, and just hanging with the boys!
What is your favorite thing about Tulsa?
There is so much to do with our kids. Lots of art and culture, good food. Easy to get around!
What is your favorite spot in Tulsa?
We love The Gathering Place with the kids. We love to eat at The Bull in the Alley and Amelia’s.
What words do you live by?
Jeff’s is Joie de Vivre, which is a French phrase used to express a cheerful enjoyment of life! Sarah’s is probably Be Honest.
What can you not leave home without?
My cell phone. Honestly- My 9 year old was recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. He has a newish medical devise that syncs to an app and I can see his blood sugar on my phone at all times. It is a life saver.
Make sure to visit the new Fox Broermann office at 6585 S Yale Avenue, #510 Tulsa, Oklahoma 74136. To learn more about Drs. Fox and Broermann, visit their WEBSITE or follow them on INSTAGRAM.