More than Chairside

I finish my conversation with Erin Hendricks, the American Dental Assistant Association President. She brings her goals for the dental assistant organization, and we talk about the OPA program. It's taking a lot of heat right now. What do you think about it? We share our thoughts and more with the roles of DA's in the US.  ADAA Site @TheSocialAsst

In this first part of a two-episode conversation, I sit down with Erin Hendricks, President of the American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA). From the moment we connected, I knew this was going to be a special one. Erin's story is a powerful reminder of just how much dental assistants can accomplish and how far this profession can take you when you lean into it fully. We dig into her journey, what led her to the ADAA, and what it really means to lead and advocate for dental assistants on a national level. Whether you're just starting out or you've been chairside for years, this episode will leave you inspired and seeing your role in a whole new light. Because dental assistants don't just assist, they lead, they grow, and they make a difference. And come back for Part 2! @thesocialasst

This week I'm joined by Chelsea Homire, @chelsea_the_digital_da, and we're having the conversation so many dental assistants need to hear. We talk about burnout, the long hours, feeling expected to always do more, and the pressure that comes with trying to keep everything moving while putting yourself last. But we also talk about the other side of it… setting boundaries, knowing your worth, and realizing that taking care of yourself doesn't make you less dedicated. Because being a great assistant shouldn't mean losing yourself in the process. If you've ever felt exhausted, unseen, or wondered if you're asking for too much… this episode is for you. 💙

On this episode of More Than Chairside, we sit down with Hanna, a dental assistant who truly loves where she works. She shares what it's like to be part of a practice where the doctors empower their team, support growth, and create an environment where assistants can thrive. We also dive into the real side of dental assisting — the funny moments, everyday chaos, and stories every assistant will relate to.  As Dental Assistants, we can feel stuck in a practice we are not happy in, but we dont have to. Today I am having an honest conversation about finding the right team, growing in your role, and remembering to have fun along the way.  @thesocialasst  

Today on More Than Chairside, I'm talking with Dental Assisting Collective founder Joanne about what it's really like being a new dental assistant. dentalassistingcollective.com We talk about the overwhelm, the pressure to "figure it out," and how assistants can truly thrive inside a dental practice instead of just surviving day to day. From building confidence and finding your place on the team to learning how to grow in your career, this episode is full of honest conversations and encouragement for assistants at every stage. If you're new to dental assisting, feeling stuck, or just need a reminder that you're not alone, this episode is for you.  @thesocialasst @dental_assistant_coach_

Today, I'm joined by Chelsea Homire—my co-founder at Digital Dental Assistant Academy—and we're diving into something every dental assistant knows all too well… the MANY hats we wear every single day. From clinical support to patient care, scheduling, problem-solving, and everything in between—dental assistants truly keep the practice running. In this episode, we talk about just how much assistants actually do (because it's a lot), why our role is so vital to a successful dental practice, and why it's time that gets recognized. But we don't stop there. We also get real about taking care of ourselves—setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, and creating a morning routine that sets the tone for your entire day (even when your schedule is chaos). If you've ever felt like you're doing everything… this episode is for you. Chelse - @chelsea_the_digital_da on Instagram Rochelle - @thesocialasst on Instagram

Welcome to the very first episode of More Than Chairside—the podcast made for dental assistants, by a dental assistant. I'm Rochelle Foote, a dental assistant of 14+ years and co-founder of the Digital Dental Assistant Academy, and in this episode, I'm sharing why this podcast needed to exist. Because let's be honest… There are so many podcasts for dentists, hygienists, and office managers—but where are the podcasts for dental assistants? In this episode, we're talking about: What it really feels like going from dental assisting school into a real dental office The chaos, the pressure, and feeling like you weren't fully prepared Burnout, feeling undervalued, and questioning your career And also… the growth, opportunities, and paths dental assistants can take beyond chairside This podcast is your space to: ✨ Laugh ✨ Learn ✨ Vent a little ✨ And realize you're not the only one figuring it out We'll be bringing on real dental assistants—from brand new to 20+ years in the field—to talk about real experiences in dental assisting, digital dentistry, career growth, and life in and out of the office. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or even excited about what's possible in your dental assistant career… you're in the right place. 🎧 New episodes drop weekly. Perfect for your commute, lunch break, or drive home from the office. Find me @TheSocialAsst on Instagram!