2021 Bayou Region Influencers | Dr. Stephen Morgan

Owner, Houma Family Dental 

After 14 years of practicing downtown, Houma Family Dental moved into its new state-of-the-art facility on Highway 311. In addition to its innovation, the dentistry is also known for its family-like comforting atmosphere and patient-oriented care. The business is led by owner Dr. Stephen Morgan. A member of the Bayou District Dental Association, the Secretary-Treasurer of the Louisiana Dental Association and an avid runner who supports local exercise groups, there is no question that Dr. Morgan greatly influences the Bayou Region.

What led you to make the decision to own your own company? Did you see yourself in the position when you began dreaming of your future? 

“The beauty of the profession of dentistry lies in the autonomy to direct your future. You have free will to practice when you want, where you want and in whatever aspect of the dental field. This allows me to work hard, still have a family life and develop my company to give the staff the best possible work experience.”

What is the biggest challenge you have faced over the years and how did you meet it?

“Deciding to move from a 150-year-old building where we practiced for 14 years to a brand new location on Highway 311 and Polk Street. It happened over four years’ time. We opened our doors in 2020 to great success, despite the coronavirus and five-plus hurricanes.”

What does your morning routine look like? 

“I’m up at 4:30 a.m., working out at 5. Then I’m back home to shower, eat breakfast, pray, take care of the animals and spend time with Amanda and Avery before he heads to school. I’m out the door at 7:15 for work to prepare for the 7:45 morning huddle with the office staff.” 

What’s one thing you can’t leave your house without each morning? 

“Underwear…just kidding. Truthfully, I’d say my phone. My days are completely busy, so my connection to family and communication with the world outside the office is through email, phone calls and texts.” 

What piece of advice do you share with your employees regularly? 

“It lies within our daily mantra that we say every morning in our huddle: ‘Our team at Houma Family Dental strives to provide the highest standard of dental care to ensure optimal health to our patients.’ It’s all about serving others with care, respect and empathy.” 

What skill do you feel all successful leaders should possess? 

“Excellence in leadership is not a singular act. You are what you repeatedly do. Therefore, you must consistently

understand the goals you want your company to achieve and motivate your people based on their personality type needs. By understanding their needs, the staff will take ownership of their jobs and career. Then, the entire organization becomes successful.”

What has been your greatest accomplishment? 

“I think the greatest accomplishment and with the endeavors in life is being able to keep everything in balance with the six aspects of life: family, intellect, spiritual, health, economic, social. 

“You have to make sure you commit family time, whether it’s your immediate family or beyond. Intellect is always challenging your mind, pushing a little bit to learn more to achieve more in that intellectual side. Social — you have to enjoy life. You have to have some social interactions, whether it’s family or friends — someone who is keeping you accountable but also there to help enjoy different aspects of life. Health is keeping your body healthy, which allows your body, your mind and everything else to kind of flow into play. Economics are important. They’re not the center of life, but economic stability helps to make general life stable. And then last and most important is the spiritual side. I believe strongly, whatever spirit or religion or faith you follow, if you’re dedicated to it and the fact that there’s a higher power, that holds you accountable to live a good life.” 

Who are your greatest influencers? 

“My wife is one of my greatest influencers. She pushes me to reach many of the goals we’ve set forth. She’s always been there for me through everything. I take inspiration from my extended family and my kids also. I have a 15-year-old special needs daughter, and she’s been through a lot of medical complications and challenges. Seeing her get through those complications and challenges can inspire any parent to make life as good and as comfortable for them as possible.”

How are you going to impact the Bayou Region in 2021? 

“So one of the great things about Houma Family Dental is we have “Freedom Day,” where we offer free dental procedures to active, veteran and retired military men and women and their families. It’s just a way to give back to our region, a way to serve. Supporting your community with a nice, comfortable, welcoming safe environment as a dental office, I think is a tremendous benefit for our community.” •