William M. Schneider, D.D.S.

Dr. William Schneider: An Early Intuition

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

WALNUT CREEK — While many people remain in search of their professional callings well into adulthood, Dr. William Schneider says he was one of the “lucky ones” who know exactly what they want to do at a young age. “I knew early on that I wanted to be a dentist. My dad was a dentist, and I always heard him talking about how much he enjoyed his work. When I was in high school, I started volunteering at his office so I could get a closer look at what dentistry was all about. Interacting one-on-one with patients only served to confirm that this was what I wanted to do.”

Twenty-five years later, Dr. Schneider says his favorite part of his job is still interacting with patients. “I really enjoy maintaining long-term relationships with my patients. I find that aspect of the profession very rewarding—in fact, it’s why I became a family dentist instead of a specialist.”

Born and raised in Danville, Dr. Schneider currently resides in Alamo with his wife, Valerie, and expresses his appreciation for the temperate Bay Area weather. “I spend a lot of time pursuing outdoor activities like golfing and fishing, and our wonderful climate allows me to do these things all year long.” In addition to golfing and fishing locally, Dr. Schneider enjoys taking his favorite hobbies to new locations. “I like river fishing for salmon in Alaska and fly fishing in Utah,” he says. “I’ve also had the privilege of playing golf in places like Scotland, England and Hawaii.”

In his life and career, Dr. Schneider subscribes to the idea that what goes around comes around. “I believe if you work hard and treat people honestly, good karma will come back to you,” he says. “Whether or not you believe in the concept of karma, these attributes are the keys to being successful in business and life.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he could retire tomorrow, Dr. Schneider says he’d hop on a plane headed to an unfamiliar destination. “I’d probably travel to a place I haven’t yet seen, like Australia. Of course, I wouldn’t forget to bring along my fishing gear and golf clubs!”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite band?
A: The Eagles.

Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The University of Arizona Wildcats basketball team.

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Esin Restaurant & Bar in Danville.

Q: What’s your earliest memory?
A: Playing with blocks in nursery school.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Blueberries.