Thais Carter

Senior Manager for PR and Media Relations, Kavo Kerr Group

Over the last 10 years in the dental industry, I have met a wide range of people. Some disappoint, some are dependable and a precious few are impressive. I can say, without hesitation, that Dr. Lou Shuman is easily one of the most remarkable people I've worked with in my capacities as Editor in Chief and Group Content Director for Advanstar Dental Media, and in my new role in media relations with the KaVo Kerr Group.

From a marketing perspective, Dr. Shuman is one of the few people in this industry willing to see advertising for all it can accomplish, above and beyond brand recognition. From an educational perspective, Dr. Shuman is able to cut through the narcissism that drives many key opinion leaders in order to identify and encourage speakers who actually work to make our community better instead of just lining their own pockets. Finding new mediums; live and digital; to help give those people a voice, is something he excels at. From a product development perspective, Dr. Shuman is the person who will ask incisive questions in order to drive innovation that matters in the day-to-day life of the dental professional. And, from a technology perspective, you will find no greater advocate than Dr. Shuman. His vision to create the Pride Institute Best of Class Awards led to one of the most sought-after prizes in the industry without once compromising the integrity of the process. His ability to corral the panel; representing some of the best minds in dental technology; and winning companies is tantamount to moving mountains. I count my work with Dr. Shuman among some of the best during my time in this industry. He is creative and driven and an asset to any organization he partners with.

Matthew PetcheL

Principal Owner and Creative Lead for Brand Target

I've been in the dental industry for more than 15 years, and I can't think of another person I've met like Lou. Lou is the total package of everything you look for in a consultant - I actually refer to him as "The Commissioner" since he knows just about everyone and knows how the industry works. He understands the clinical side, since he practiced for 18 years, and he knows the business side having worked with many manufacturers and his media connections are second to none. And on top of all of that (like it wasn't enough), he's a nice person and one of the truly good people in our industry. Quite frankly, Lou does what other people can't do or don't know how to do and he does it with a smile on his face and a passion for excellence.

Lou and I have worked together numerous times - from the global launch of a billion dollar corporation (KaVo Kerr Group) to projects for smaller start up companies like Propel Orthodontics. Lou has been a great mentor, partner and friend and I would recommend him to anyone who wants to work with the best and achieve greatness on the highest level.

Harvard I-Lab VIP Team Founder

(Currently under NDA)

Lou is a start-up accelerator. When Lou believes in a transformative technology that will improve dental care for patients or providers, remember to buckle up, because Lou will help navigate your business quickly and effectively through ideation to execution. Lou's vast network is a culmination of genuine relationships and shared success that has made him one of the most trusted resources in the industry. Harvard's Innovation Lab has many talented mentors but Lou might be the best; it has been our great fortune that Lou chose dentistry!

Howard Bowne

Former Vice-President and General Manager, DENTSPLY GAC

In early 2009, facing a lackluster Orthodontic market I had the incredible good fortune to be introduced to Dr. Lou Shuman. What I did not realize at that time was that I had just met an incredibly talented and extraordinarily knowledgeable professional, someone who would help my organization to literally redefine ourselves in the marketplace.

One need only spend a few minutes with Lou to realize he is incredibly bright, motivated, knowledgeable and extremely passionate in his pursuit of excellence. Quickly thereafter you realize these aren't even his greatest strengths. Integrity, character, modesty, teamwork and loyalty;these are the traits that define Dr. Lou Shuman.

Allow me to offer you an example. In March of 2011 there was a major earthquake and tsunami off the coast of Fukushima Japan resulting in a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daichi power plant. My single largest supplier was located 3.2 miles from the disaster and was unable to manufacture product for the foreseeable future. Many questioned our ability to rebound from such an event. Despite this uncertainty Lou not only stood fast in his commitment as a business partner and advisor, he actually encouraged others to stay the course as well. Ultimately we weathered the supply issues thanks to loyal business partners like Lou Shuman.

Following 2011 Dr. Shuman used his unique combination of business acumen along with his classical Orthodontic/Dental training to help my team develop a differentiated value proposition giving customers a reason to prefer our products and services over those of the competition.

Whether you are looking to build the core competencies of your organization or you are ready to take your game to the next level, I would highly encourage you to include Lou Shuman in your plans.

Amy Morgan 

CEO, Pride Institute

Our nickname for Dr. Lou Shuman here at Pride Institute is, "THE BULLET TRAIN". Why? Because he moves quickly and definitively in all of his goals (and you better get on that train). Lou brings new energy, excitement and a long history of expertise to any project or company that he supports. I most appreciate his ability to draw from all of his long cultivated, relationships in the dental community and leverage them to create synergistic opportunities for everyone. As a teacher, mentor and speaker he delivers his messages in a way that inspires change and growth for all. His knowledge of technology and web based communication strategies is extensive and important. Dr. Lou Shuman is a true original.

Saran Hurd, Alyssa Nugent and Blaze Interligi

The Clinical Education Team at Propel Orthodontics

Let us first start with the level of commitment and sincere dedication Lou provides to his client organizations. He is the type of individual that cannot move away from a project, until the projected outcome is achieved or most often surpassed. His wealth of knowledge and experience paired with his meticulous attention to detail allows him to provide invaluable contributions on both a macro and micro level within a company. His extensive network of longstanding professional partnerships is an asset unto itself, unleashing extreme potential previously not thought to be possible. More importantly, he opens the door to his network of partnerships to benefit from one another. Lou is the first to offer a solution and the first to dip into his network to freely offer resources.

Lou is also quite adept at balancing his business prowess with sincere relationship and team building efforts. Working on a clinical education team under Lou's advisement was not only a blast, it allowed our team to set up an efficient infrastructure. Lou strives on teachable moments and fosters a successful work environment with his keen ability to draw out his team members' talents and provide the proper direction and wholehearted support.

His compassion is unparalleled and we are honored to call ourselves his Night's Watch and him our friend and Lord Commander!