The Real Talk of Dental

What if the “hygiene shortage”… isn’t a shortage at all?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, we pull back the curtain on one of the most talked-about issues in dentistry right now, and challenge everything you think you know about hiring, retention, and what’s really happening inside dental practices.Jennifer Steadman brings a rare, full-spectrum perspective, former hygienist, operator, and VP of Ops, to unpack the truth behind why hygienists are stepping away, what practices are getting wrong, and how leadership, culture, and compensation are all colliding in real time.This conversation doesn’t play it safe. It gets honest about toxic environments, unrealistic expectations, rising wages, and the quiet shift happening across the industry.Because this isn’t about a talent shortage. It’s about alignment, standards, and whether your practice is a place people actually want to stay.You’ll learn:Why the “hygiene shortage” might actually be a retention and culture issueWhat hygienists are no longer willing to tolerate in today’s practicesThe real impact of toxic environments, micromanagement, and outdated leadership modelsHow COVID accelerated a massive shift in expectations, flexibility, and wagesThe difference between production-driven care and patient-first outcomesWhy shortening appointment times is not the solution (and what to do instead)The 3:1 production ratio every healthy hygiene department should hitHow to structure compensation, including base + commission models that actually workWhy transparency around business finances builds stronger, more aligned teamsThe role of leadership in creating autonomy without losing standardsWhat a “waterfall” of expenses really means for profitability and payHow to prevent team resentment when hiring at higher wagesWhy calibration, training, and clear standards of care are non-negotiableThe communication gap that’s quietly breaking teams (and how to fix it)What great practices are doing differently to retain top hygienistsHow to spot underperformance vs. system failureWhy culture, not compensation, is the long-term retention strategy🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:0:00 The “truth bomb” about the hygiene shortage2:45 Why hygienists are choosing to step away from practices5:00 Toxic environments, outdated expectations, and lack of support7:30 Autonomy vs. control, what hygienists actually want10:00 Why standard of care needs to be collaborative, not dictated12:30 The biggest mistake practices make with appointment timing14:00 The 20-20-20 model for effective hygiene appointments16:00 Production vs. patient care, what actually drives revenue18:30 Compensation models, hourly vs. base + commission21:00 Why financial transparency changes everything23:30 The hiring gap, wage inflation, and internal team tension26:00 COVID’s lasting impact on hygiene and flexibility29:00 Leadership, communication, and why most teams struggle32:00 Handling difficult conversations as a practice owner35:00 What defines a healthy, high-performing hygiene department38:00 Culture, loyalty, and what’s been lost in dentistry41:00 The one leadership habit that changes everythingConnect with JenniferLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifercsteadman/ Website: https://www.jensos.com/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What if the biggest risk inside your dental practice… isn’t what you can see?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, we dive into a topic that isn’t flashy, but could change everything, dental waterline safety.Landon Hilliard from Dentist Safe breaks down the hidden dangers inside dental unit waterlines, why over 80% of practices aren’t testing them, and how contaminated water can impact both patients and staff.From real outbreak cases to the science of biofilm and bacteria growth, this conversation reveals the gap between what we assume is safe… and what actually is.This isn’t about fear. It’s about awareness, ownership, and raising the standard of care across the industry.You’ll learn:Why dental waterlines are one of the most overlooked infection control risksThe shocking statistic, over 80% of dentists don’t test their waterWhat really happens when water sits stagnant in dental linesHow bacteria like Legionella and E. coli can form and spreadThe real story behind a major outbreak that hospitalized childrenWhy aerosol spray reaches far beyond what you can seeHow contaminated water impacts not just patients, but your entire teamThe role leadership plays in setting safety standardsWhy every practice needs a “waterline champion”Simple, actionable steps to start testing and improving immediately🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:0:00 The hidden risk inside dental offices2:10 Why waterline safety is often ignored4:15 What Dentist Safe actually does5:30 The shocking truth about testing rates6:40 How aerosol spreads throughout a room8:00 The science of bacteria and stagnant water9:30 Why dental education misses this topic11:00 How practices can start improving today13:00 The role of leadership in safety protocols14:30 Real outbreak cases and patient impact16:00 Why symptoms can take months to appear18:00 Where to start if you feel overwhelmed20:00 Creating a waterline champion in your office22:00 Landon’s story and how he got into this work25:00 Why the dental community matters27:00 Practical next steps to test your waterConnect with LandonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/landon-hilliard-a0995615b/ Website: https://dentisafe.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What if the biggest financial mistake in your dental career… has nothing to do with dentistry?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Kyle Wheeler, a commercial real estate expert who exclusively represents buyers and tenants in dentistry, to unpack the hidden risks, missed opportunities, and costly misconceptions that happen every day in practice acquisitions, leases, and startups.From new grads walking into deals without leverage… to seasoned practice owners unknowingly leaving hundreds of thousands of dollars on the table, this conversation exposes the side of dentistry no one teaches you.Kyle breaks down why commercial real estate is nothing like residential, why “handling it yourself” can cost you more than you think, and how timing, strategy, and representation can completely change the outcome of your next move.If you’re thinking about buying, leasing, expanding, or even just renewing your space, this episode will shift how you approach every decision.You’ll learn:Why dental practice real estate is completely different from residential dealsThe biggest mistake dentists make when buying a practiceHow lack of representation can cost you tens to hundreds of thousandsWhy leverage is everything in negotiations, and how to create itThe critical timing window (18–24 months) most dentists ignoreWhat you can actually negotiate in a lease (hint, almost everything)How tenant improvement allowances can save you six figuresThe hidden risk of relying on brokers who represent the sellerWhy working with specialists, not generalists, changes outcomesHow to approach startups, acquisitions, and lease renewals strategically🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 The overlooked risk in dental practice deals03:00 Why dentists walk into negotiations with no leverage06:00 The difference between residential vs. commercial real estate10:00 Practice acquisitions and the real estate trap14:00 When to bring in representation (and why it matters early)18:00 What you can negotiate in a lease (and what most miss)22:00 The cost of waiting too long to start the process25:00 How time creates leverage and better deal outcomes28:00 Lease vs. buy, when ownership actually makes sense29:00 Kyle’s background and the mindset behind his approach34:00 Final advice for protecting your future in dentistryConnect with KyleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/healthcare-realty-michigan/ Website: https://carr.us/commercial-real-estate-agents/kyle-wheeler/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What happens when the systems meant to protect patients and providers… aren’t actually being followed?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with infection control expert and educator Sherrie Busby to unpack one of the most overlooked risks in dentistry, the gap between what’s taught, what’s required, and what’s actually happening inside practices.Sherrie shares the story that started it all, a real exposure to hepatitis early in her career, before PPE was standard, and how that moment shaped her path into infection control education. From there, the conversation opens into a much bigger issue, one that still exists today.Despite clear guidelines from OSHA and the CDC, most dental teams are still navigating infection control through passed-down habits, inconsistent training, and limited onboarding. The result? Misunderstandings, burnout, turnover, and potential risk to both patients and providers.This episode goes beyond protocols. It’s a conversation about leadership, accountability, team culture, and what it really takes to build a safe, high-functioning dental practice.If you’ve ever assumed your team “just knows” what to do, this episode will challenge that assumption.You’ll learn:Why infection control training is still a major gap in dentistryThe real reason dentists graduate with little to no infection control educationHow bad habits get passed down through teams without anyone realizing itWhy onboarding failures are driving burnout and turnover in dental officesThe “four-lane highway gap” that’s costing practices time, money, and safetyHow proper training directly impacts productivity, confidence, and cultureThe balance between hiring experts vs. training internallyWhy dental assistants are the backbone of infection control and patient safetyHow to create scalable, repeatable training systems in your practiceThe role of ownership and self-led learning in building high-performing teams🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 The story that sparked a career in infection control03:00 Life before PPE and how safety standards evolved06:00 Why dental education is missing critical infection control training10:00 The biggest training gaps in dental practices today15:00 Why onboarding fails and how it impacts retention20:00 The ripple effect of poor training and system breakdowns24:00 Internal vs. external training, what actually works29:00 Empowering assistants and building confident teams31:00 Why doctors must invest in training (and what happens when they don’t)36:00 Final thoughts on leadership, growth, and raising the standardConnect with SherrieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherrie-busby-edda-cdso-cdipc-ab38694b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantconnection/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What happens when two dentists give you two completely different diagnoses, just months apart?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Wardah Inam, CEO and founder of Overjet, to unpack the real reason AI is entering dentistry, and what it actually means for clinicians, patients, and the future of care.Wardah shares the personal moment that sparked the creation of Overjet, and how that experience exposed a deeper issue across the industry, inconsistency in diagnosis and treatment planning. From there, she built one of the first FDA-cleared AI platforms in dentistry, focused not just on efficiency, but on improving clinical accuracy and patient outcomes.This conversation goes far beyond technology. It explores leadership, decision-making under uncertainty, the reality of building a company in a rapidly evolving AI landscape, and the tension between fear and opportunity as AI adoption accelerates.If you’ve ever questioned AI in dentistry, or wondered whether it’s a tool, a threat, or something in between, this episode will challenge how you think about the future of the profession.You’ll learn:Why AI in dentistry actually existsThe real problem behind inconsistent diagnosesHow Overjet improves accuracy without replacing cliniciansThe 70% rule for faster, better decisionsWhy waiting for perfect information holds you backWhat AI regulation means for your practiceThe truth about AI and “surveillance” fearsWhy dentists need to be part of this shiftHow patient-first thinking guides AI developmentThe biggest mistake leaders make under pressureWhy alignment with yourself drives better outcomes🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 What’s broken in dentistry today03:00 The problem that led to Overjet08:00 How great leaders make fast decisions15:00 The truth about AI in dentistry21:00 Why patient-first thinking matters26:00 Building a culture of truth and accountability37:00 Should dentists be skeptical of AI?40:00 Final advice on purpose and successConnect with WardahLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wardahinam/ Github: https://wardahinam.github.io/ Website: https://www.overjet.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

Dental events are getting more expensive. More crowded. And for many vendors, less effective than ever.What happens when the traditional conference model stops delivering real results?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Michael Scott of Smile Together to unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes at dental events, and why a new model is starting to take over.After years in tech, sales, and events, Michael entered the dental space with a fresh perspective and quickly noticed a disconnect. Vendors are spending tens of thousands of dollars to attend conferences, only to walk away with a handful of leads and months of follow-up that rarely converts.Meanwhile, decision-makers are overwhelmed with noise, repeat speakers, and surface-level conversations.So what’s the solution?Michael shares how Smile Together is flipping the model, creating curated, high-intent environments where vendors and buyers sit down for real conversations that actually move business forward.But this conversation goes deeper than events. It explores authenticity in dentistry, the power of personal brand, and why the future of this industry belongs to those who build real relationships, not just polished pitches.If you’re a vendor, DSO, dental leader, or entrepreneur trying to understand where the industry is headed, this episode will challenge how you think about connection, sales, and growth.You’ll learn:Why traditional dental conferences are losing ROI for vendorsThe hidden problem behind large-scale industry eventsHow the “hosted buyer” model is changing dental networkingWhy more vendors are becoming selective about which events they attendThe real reason most event leads don’t convert into salesHow to position your offer in front of different decision-makersWhy authenticity is becoming the biggest competitive advantage in dentistryThe role of personal brand in building trust and closing dealsWhat vendors must do to stay relevant in a relationship-driven industryHow curated, intentional environments create better business outcomes🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 Welcome to Real Talk of Dental, what’s broken behind the scenes01:05 Why dental events feel busy but don’t drive real results03:30 How Michael entered the dental industry and what stood out06:30 The Smile Together model, curated meetings vs crowded booths08:00 Why vendors are questioning ROI on traditional conferences10:00 The real issue, too many attendees, not enough decision-makers12:00 Why most events try to be everything and fail because of it14:30 Inside the 15-minute meeting model and how it actually works16:00 Rising costs of dental events and who’s getting priced out18:30 Where real business happens, hallway conversations vs the stage21:00 The power of transparency and authenticity in today’s industry24:30 Losing sight of the patient in a business-driven environment28:00 Coaching, leadership, and lessons from sports33:00 Why even top performers still need coaching36:00 The biggest mistake vendors make in sales conversations39:30 The shift to personal brand and relationship-driven business42:00 Why real relationships outperform polished presentationsConnect with MichaelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelscottthecoach/ Website: https://www.smiletogetherlive.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

Dentistry is facing a growing tension no one wants to talk about.New dentists entering the profession often expect six-figure incomes, shorter work weeks, and rapid success. Meanwhile, practice owners are carrying the financial risk, team leadership, and operational pressure behind the scenes.So where is the disconnect?In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Dr. Anushka Gaglani, a dentist who practiced clinically for 14 years before helping build a growing multi-practice dental group with her husband. What started as a single practice has grown into an organization approaching eight offices, giving her a rare perspective on both sides of the associate-owner divide.Together they unpack the expectation gap happening across dentistry, including the $300K income myth, the leadership skills dentists are never taught in school, and how social media has reshaped career expectations for new graduates.This is an honest conversation about the realities of building a career in dentistry, leading teams, and navigating the generational shifts happening inside dental practices today.If you’re a dentist, associate, practice owner, or dental professional trying to understand where the profession is headed, this episode will challenge a lot of assumptions.You’ll learn:Why many new dentists expect rapid financial successThe reality behind the “$300K dentist” narrativeWhy communication skills matter more than clinical technique early in your careerThe leadership gap that exists across dentistryWhy associates struggle between being liked and being respected by teamsThe real financial pressures behind running a dental practiceHow social media is shaping unrealistic expectations for dentistsWhat it actually takes to build and scale multiple dental practices🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 Welcome to Real Talk of Dental | Dentist Career Reality01:05 Dr. Anushka Gaglani’s Journey from Dentist to Multi-Practice Owner03:35 Starting and Scaling a Dental Practice05:40 The Reality of Dental Entrepreneurship07:45 Leadership Skills Dentists Are Never Taught in School09:15 Why Communication Skills Matter for Dentists11:30 Emotional Intelligence in Dental Practice Leadership13:40 Associate Dentist vs Dental Team Leadership Challenges15:20 The Leadership Gap in Dentistry17:20 Personal Development and Leadership in Dentistry19:15 Managing New Generation Dentists20:40 New Dentist Work Expectations vs Practice Reality22:35 Social Media and Unrealistic Dentist Salary Expectations24:15 The $300K Dentist Myth Explained26:05 The Real Cost of Running a Dental Practice28:40 The “Title Trap” in Dentistry Careers30:10 Value Creation vs Titles in Dental Leadership31:40 Finding Your Zone of Genius in Dentistry33:10 Scaling Multiple Dental Practices35:10 Entrepreneurship Sacrifices in Dentistry36:40 Final Advice for Dentists and Practice OwnersConnect with Dr. Gaglani LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anushka-gaglani-dds/Website: https://www.areodental.com/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

Is there really a dental hygiene shortage… or are hygienists simply refusing to tolerate toxic environments?In Episode 34 of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Kendra Flowers to unpack one of the most controversial conversations happening in dentistry right now. From the so called hygiene shortage to the growing tension between dentists and hygienists, this episode goes straight to the core of what is breaking inside the profession.Kendra’s career spans assistant, hygienist, clinical operations, and now public health advocacy at Harmony Health Foundation. Her perspective is layered, battle tested, and deeply rooted in service. She has worked in underserved communities, witnessed Medicaid practices collapse under grant loss, and seen firsthand how production pressure is reshaping the heart of dentistry.Together, they explore whether dentistry is losing its mission, why hygienists feel undervalued, and how COVID accelerated a professional reckoning. This is not surface level burnout talk. This is about identity, autonomy, access to care, and the future of oral healthcare.If you have ever questioned whether the hygiene shortage is real, felt dismissed as “just a hygienist,” or sensed that the industry is drifting away from patient centered care, this conversation will resonate.You’ll learn:Why the “dental hygiene shortage” may actually be a workplace culture issueHow toxic environments are pushing licensed hygienists out of clinical practiceThe impact of COVID on hygiene autonomy and workforce decisionsWhat hygienists are trained to do vs what they are allowed to doWhy Medicaid reimbursement and public health funding are reshaping access to careThe financial and systemic pressures dentists are facingHow DSOs are influencing productivity expectationsWhy many hygienists feel reduced to “profit centers”The growing autonomy movement in dental hygieneHow dentistry today mirrors medicine 50 years agoWhy student loan debt limits public health career pathsThe real cost of losing heart in healthcareWhat happens when production replaces purposeHow collaboration between dentists and hygienists could rebuild the profession🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 The “war” between dentists and hygienists02:30 Is dentistry losing its heart?05:00 Production pressure vs patient care07:30 Medicaid, grants, and access to care challenges11:00 Public health dentistry and why it matters14:00 Why younger professionals avoid policy involvement17:00 Student loan debt and career limitations20:00 The dental hygiene shortage truth bomb25:00 Toxic work environments and hygiene autonomy28:00 “Just a hygienist” and professional identity32:00 Hygienists in leadership and business strategy36:00 Why collaboration is the future of dentistry38:30 Reclaiming purpose and doing good in dentistryConnect with KendraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-flowers/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kendra.e.flowers/ Website: https://www.kendraflowers.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What happens when you realize, three years into your dental career, that chairside dentistry is not for you… and you feel completely trapped?In Episode 33 of The Real Talk of Dental, Dr. Laura Brenner shares her unfiltered journey of leaving clinical dentistry after a decade of practicing. What started as quiet dissatisfaction turned into years of chronic low-grade depression, identity conflict, and the pressure to stay in a profession she had invested everything into.Laura opens up about the culture of dentistry that tells us we are “lifers,” the shame that comes with questioning your career choice, and the internal battle between financial security and personal fulfillment. From her viral blog post “10 Reasons Your Dentist Probably Hates You” to building a non-clinical path through side gigs, coaching, and mindset work, Laura now helps dentists pivot safely and strategically without burning their lives down.This episode goes far beyond burnout. It explores identity attachment, financial fear, scarcity vs abundance thinking, dental school conditioning, comparison culture, and how to rebuild confidence when you believe you have no transferable skills.If you have ever thought, “Did I make the wrong career choice?” this conversation is for you.You’ll learn:Why leaving clinical dentistry feels like divorce from an identityThe difference between burnout and genuine career misalignmentHow dental school culture shapes comparison and perfectionismWhy so many dentists feel trapped by golden handcuffsThe mindset shift from “I have no other skills” to “If I can do dentistry, I can do anything”How to build a side gig while still practicing dentistryWhy quitting without a plan can increase anxiety and scarcityThe financial fear that keeps dentists stuckWhy happiness comes before success, not afterHow abundance is more than just moneyWhy career pivots should be experiments, not catastrophesWhat life can actually look like after leaving clinical practice🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 The culture of dentistry and silent career regret02:30 The viral blog post that changed everything05:00 Realizing chairside dentistry was not aligned08:00 Burnout vs career misalignment12:00 The shame of wanting to quit dentistry15:00 Financial fear and the golden handcuffs18:00 Building a side gig while still practicing21:00 Mindset work and transferable skills25:00 Dental school conditioning and comparison culture30:00 Scarcity vs abundance in high-income professions34:00 Career pivots as experiments, not catastrophes38:00 Life after leaving clinical dentistry42:00 Why you are not alone in questioning your careerConnect with Dr. LauraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-brenner-dds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Drlolabees Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlolabees/ Website: https://www.lolabeescareercoaching.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What happens when you are the strong one in dentistry, the leader, the provider, the one everyone depends on, and you are quietly carrying grief no one sees?In Episode 32 of The Real Talk of Dental, Dr. Parul Dua Makkar opens up about losing her younger brother to oral cancer at 34, followed by the sudden loss of her father just three years later. As a sole practitioner, mother, and healthcare provider, she found herself navigating profound personal loss while still showing up for patients, staff, and family.From finishing her brother’s unfinished manuscript after his death to creating a legacy journal inspired by the questions she never got to ask her father, Parul shares what it looks like to process grief in dentistry while still leading at a high level.This conversation goes far beyond death. It explores trauma stored in the body, identity loss after major life transitions, burnout driven by unprocessed grief, and the emotional isolation many dentists experience but rarely name.You’ll learn:Why grief in dentistry often goes unrecognizedHow trauma and loss physically manifest in the body of healthcare professionalsWhy overworking can be a coping mechanism for unprocessed griefThe emotional isolation of solo practice and leadership decision fatigueHow selling a practice or transitioning to a DSO can trigger identity griefThe impact of collective trauma post-COVID on dental professionalsWhy burnout is sometimes grief in disguiseHow writing, ritual, and legacy projects can support healingThe importance of seeking support instead of suppressing painHow to hold joy and sadness at the same time without guiltWhat sustainable emotional resilience looks like in dentistry🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 The isolation of dentistry and why grief often goes unspoken02:30 Losing a sibling to oral cancer and the guilt healthcare providers carry05:00 Sudden loss, anticipatory grief, and the shock of losing a parent07:30 Identity loss after death and becoming an “only child” overnight10:00 How trauma and grief are stored in the body14:00 Overworking as a coping mechanism in dentistry17:00 The grief of career expectations and the fantasy vs reality of dentistry21:00 Practice transitions, DSO sales, and identity shifts23:00 Midlife grief, changing bodies, and evolving roles27:00 Collective grief post-COVID and cultural exhaustion31:00 Writing as healing, finishing her brother’s book, and creating legacy35:00 Why burnout in dentistry is sometimes unprocessed grief39:00 Healthy coping tools, support systems, and emotional regulation42:00 Sustainable resilience and why grief should never be navigated aloneConnect with Dr. ParulLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drparulduamakkar/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PDMFamilyDentalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duagoodjobWebsite: https://parulduamakkar.com/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

What happens when you step into one of the most powerful leadership roles in dentistry just as the profession finds itself at the center of political controversy, anti-science narratives, and national scrutiny?In Episode 31 of The Real Talk of Dental, Dr. Brett Kessler reflects on his term as President of the American Dental Association and the unexpected intensity of leading dentistry through one of its most publicly challenged years.From national advocacy efforts to the fluoride debate, from legislative battles to anti-science narratives, Brett shares what it felt like to carry the weight of representing an entire profession. He describes the year as both the hardest and the best of his life, shaped by 18-hour days, 200+ presentations, 225 days on the road, and constant high-stakes decision makingThis conversation goes far beyond policy. It explores resilience, sobriety, mindfulness, purpose, burnout in dentistry, and what it truly means to lead under pressure without losing yourself.You’ll learn:Why the fluoride debate became a defining moment for dental advocacyWhat proactive legislative leadership looks like at a federal levelHow organized dentistry protects the profession from harmful policy decisionsWhy many dentists are burning out and how the benefit model contributesThe role of sobriety, mindfulness, and recovery principles in leadershipHow to lead under criticism without abandoning your valuesWhy dentistry may be entering a transformative eraThe importance of medical dental integration for the future of careWhat sustainable leadership looks like in dentistry🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/🔗 Boundary Boss GPT:https://leadhershipexperience.com/boundarybossWe talk about:00:00 Stepping into the ADA presidency during a volatile year02:30 Proactive advocacy and the Washington Post initiative05:00 Aligning dentistry with national health policy and legislative outreach07:30 Being misunderstood in leadership and staying anchored in core values10:00 The mental, emotional, and physical toll of 18-hour days14:00 Why this year was harder than an Ironman17:00 Why organized dentistry matters more than ever21:00 Is dentistry under attack? Fluoride, funding, and public health threats23:00 The loneliness of leadership and decision fatigue27:00 People pleasing, triggers, and emotional regulation31:00 Recovery, sobriety, and leading from purpose35:00 Burnout in dentistry and the broken benefit model39:00 Reconnecting oral health and overall health42:00 What’s next for Dr. Kessler and the future of dentistryConnect with Dr. Bretthttps://www.instagram.com/bikodds/Phone: 720-989-7960Email: [email protected] with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

Burnout in dentistry doesn’t always look like exhaustion or breakdown. Sometimes it looks like tight shoulders, shallow breathing, emotional numbness, or the constant feeling of being “on” for everyone else while slowly disappearing from yourself.In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Lori Bulloch, registered dental hygienist, certified yoga instructor, natural health educator, and founder of Breathe With Lori, to talk about the quiet, cumulative toll dentistry takes on the nervous system and what actually helps.This conversation centers on wellness in its most honest form. Not productivity hacks. Not expensive tools. But breath, boundaries, movement, and presence.Lori shares her personal journey through mental health challenges, discovering yoga and breathwork, and learning how simple, accessible practices can regulate the nervous system inside a profession built on constant care for others. We explore emotional labor in dentistry, secondary traumatic stress, and why so many dental professionals feel overwhelmed even when they’re doing everything “right.”If you’ve been feeling tense, depleted, or quietly burned out, this conversation is a place to take a breath and remember you’re not alone.You’ll learn:Why burnout in dentistry often shows up quietly rather than dramaticallyHow breathwork supports nervous system regulation during the workdayWhat secondary traumatic stress is and how it affects dental professionalsSimple routines to reduce dread, tension, and emotional overloadHow to protect your energy without losing compassion for patientsWhy foundational wellness practices matter more than complex solutionsHow movement, nature, and breath support sustainable careers in dentistry🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Why nervous system care matters in dentistry02:00 Lori’s journey into wellness, yoga, and healing06:00 Mental health, diagnosis, and accepting support10:00 Emotional labor, burnout, and overstimulation13:00 Grounding routines before and during the workday16:00 Patient anxiety, energetic boundaries, and self-protection19:00 Secondary traumatic stress in dental settings23:00 Breathwork as a real-time regulation tool26:00 Why wellness doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive29:00 Final reflections on sustainability, care, and hopeConnect with LoriYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@onewholeheartedhygienist3595Email: [email protected] Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

After 42 years in dentistry, Dr. Alan Stern found himself financially stretched, emotionally exhausted, and questioning the meaning of a career he once believed would bring fulfillment.In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Dr. Stern shares his honest journey through burnout, comparison, financial stress, and the pursuit of significance, and how hitting rock bottom led him to redefine success. From living paycheck to paycheck and hiring the wrong advisors to therapy, grief, and discovering his “why,” this conversation is a powerful reminder that burnout isn’t about dentistry, it’s about alignment.If you’ve ever looked successful on the outside but felt empty on the inside, this episode will resonate.You’ll learn:Why dentist burnout is often rooted in identity, not workloadHow comparison and perfectionism quietly fuel miseryWhat living paycheck to paycheck after decades in practice really meansWhy asking for the right help changed everythingHow redefining success can restore joy and purpose🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Why this conversation matters03:00 Life after 42 years in practice07:00 Financial stress and comparison12:00 Therapy, humility, and asking for help20:00 Grief, purpose, and defining success35:00 Enjoying the ride and measuring impactConnect with Dr. AlanWebsite: https://betterricherstronger.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralanstern/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alansterndds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dralanstern/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this deeply moving and necessary episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Linda Kane—RCM expert, billing master, author, podcast host, and unapologetic advocate for mental health in dentistry.Linda has been in the dental industry since 1999, but her mission was forever changed after losing a doctor she worked closely with to suicide. What followed was three months of holding a practice together through grief, chaos, and community support—while witnessing firsthand how broken systems, financial stress, and isolation silently crush dental professionals.This conversation goes far beyond insurance and operations. It’s about the hidden emotional load dentists carry, the leadership gaps no one prepares them for, and why pretending everything is “fine” is costing lives.Linda shares the truth about what happens when practices lack systems, why front-office burnout is inevitable without support, and how fear, silence, and outdated models are fueling a mental health crisis in dentistry. She also makes a powerful case for outsourcing the right things, building ethical systems, and creating practices where leaders—and teams—can actually breathe.This episode is raw, honest, hopeful, and requires listening for anyone who owns, manages, or works inside a dental practice.If you’ve ever felt alone, overwhelmed, or afraid to ask for help—this conversation is for you.You’ll learn:Why dentistry’s mental health crisis is deeply tied to broken systemsHow financial chaos and front-office overload quietly burn teams outThe warning signs leaders miss before it’s too lateWhy “doing it the way we’ve always done it” is no longer safeHow outsourcing insurance protects practices legally and emotionallyThe real cost of isolation in leadershipWhy asking for help is not weakness—it’s responsibilityHow systems, truth, and support can literally save lives🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro & why this conversation matters02:00 Linda’s journey in dentistry since 199905:00 Losing a doctor to suicide—and the aftermath09:00 Holding a practice together through grief13:00 How broken systems create unbearable pressure17:00 Why dentists feel isolated and trapped21:00 Front-office burnout and the danger of “one person doing it all”26:00 Insurance, compliance, and the legal risks practices don’t see30:00 Why outsourcing is protection—not failure34:00 The stigma around mental health in dentistry38:00 Leadership, fear, and the cost of silence42:00 Systems as a form of care and prevention45:00 Final reflections and why hope still existsConnect with Linda KaneWebsite: https://www.zeroedindentalsolutions.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lindakanezinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579370609019Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindakanezids/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this deeply honest and wide-ranging episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Eric Block—practicing dentist, entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and co-founder of the International Academy of Dental Life Coaches.Eric shares his real, unfiltered journey through burnout, anxiety, and regret in dentistry, including the moment he hit rock bottom and questioned whether he could stay in the profession at all. What followed wasn’t a dramatic overnight fix, but a commitment to therapy, self-awareness, and taking responsibility for his own well-being.We explore how perfectionism, introversion, and the emotional labor of dentistry quietly fuel burnout, why so many high-achieving dental professionals struggle to ask for help, and how systems, leadership, and personal growth can radically change the day-to-day experience of practice ownership.Eric also shares how entrepreneurship reignited his passion, why creating systems like SOPs reduces mental overload, and how building community through coaching is saving careers—and lives—in dentistry.This conversation is equal parts reflective, practical, and hopeful. If you’ve ever felt trapped, exhausted, or wondered if it’s supposed to feel this hard, this episode is for you.You’ll learn:What dental burnout actually feels like when no one is talking about itHow perfectionism and introversion silently drain dentistsWhy asking for help is a strength, not a failureThe role therapy and coaching play in sustainable successHow systems and SOPs reduce daily stress and decision fatigueWhy entrepreneurship can reignite passion inside clinical practiceHow the International Academy of Dental Life Coaches supports struggling professionalsSimple mindset and lifestyle shifts that create real relief🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro and meeting through the IADLC03:00 Music, Phish, and creative inspiration08:00 Eric’s origin story and path into dentistry10:00 Hitting rock bottom and regretting the profession14:00 Therapy, perfectionism, and self-awareness18:00 Why burnout doesn’t go away on its own22:00 The emotional labor of dentistry for introverts26:00 Creating the International Academy of Dental Life Coaches30:00 Systems, SOPs, and reducing daily overwhelm34:00 Entrepreneurship as a burnout antidote38:00 Staying energized with new techniques and modalities41:00 Final reflections, hope, and taking actionConnect with Eric:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eric.block.790LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-block-dmdInstagram: @thestressfreedentistWebsite & Podcast: https://www.thestressfreedentist.com/podcast/Connect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Connie Wang—associate dentist, former pharmacist, and one of the most thoughtful voices for early-career clinicians navigating confidence, connection, and culture in dentistry.Dr. Connie shares her journey from pharmacy school to graduating from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, and what it’s really like being a newer associate in a growing group practice. We dive deep into imposter syndrome, replacing long-tenured doctors, and how young clinicians, especially women, can build trust without trying to be someone they’re not.This conversation goes far beyond clinical skills. Dr. Connie breaks down practical, neuroscience-backed communication strategies that help dentists connect with patients, lower defenses, and improve case acceptance—without scripts or sales tactics. From mastering small talk to understanding mirror neurons and nervous system regulation, this episode is a masterclass in emotional intelligence for dental professionals.If you’re a newer associate, a leader mentoring young doctors, or anyone who wants to create more human, connected patient experiences, this episode will change how you walk into the operatory.You’ll learn:How to navigate imposter syndrome as a new associateWhy connection not confidence, builds trust with patientsSimple neuroscience principles that improve communicationHow to replace a beloved retiring doctor without “filling their shoes”Why being yourself is your greatest advantage in dentistryPractical strategies for difficult patients and tough roomsHow team relationships directly impact case acceptanceNervous system tools to reset before challenging appointments🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro & why this conversation matters02:00 Dr. Connie’s path from pharmacy to dentistry05:00 Being a new associate in a growing group practice08:00 Imposter syndrome and early-career confidence11:00 Replacing a long-tenured doctor with authenticity14:00 Trust transfer and patient connection strategies18:00 “Be the brick, not the cathedral” communication mindset22:00 Mirror neurons and the science of feeling seen26:00 Handling difficult patients without shutting down30:00 Team relationships and the power of the lunchroom33:00 Creating a shared assistant–doctor “creed”36:00 Nervous system regulation before hard appointments39:00 Final reflections for young associatesConnect with Dr. ConnieInstagram & TikTok: @drconniewangInstagram: @justaquickpinchConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this deeply moving and refreshingly honest episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Olivia Woo, a 20-year-old entrepreneurship student and the daughter of Dr. Valerie Woo (guest of Episode 19), to explore what it’s really like growing up as the child of a high-achieving dentist and entrepreneur.Olivia was literally along for the ride—her mom was pregnant with her while opening her first dental practice straight out of dental school. In this conversation, Olivia offers a rare and powerful perspective: the child’s view of ambition, sacrifice, absence, resilience, and love.She opens up about the grief she felt as a child when her mom wasn’t always available, the gratitude she holds today, and how those experiences shaped her own entrepreneurial drive. Olivia reflects on becoming “the oldest of four,” maturing early, learning through observation, and how kids absorb far more than parents realize—especially around money, stress, and self-talk.This episode is a must-listen for dentist parents, women leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone trying to build a meaningful life alongside a demanding career. It’s tender, insightful, and packed with wisdom well beyond Olivia’s years.If you’ve ever wondered:How your ambition impacts your kidsWhat children of entrepreneurs really experienceOr how to build success without losing connectionThis conversation will stay with you.You’ll learn:What it’s like growing up with a dentist parent building a practice from scratchHow children experience absence, stress, and ambition at homeWhy “kids are always listening” (even when you think they aren’t)The emotional cost—and unexpected gifts—of being the oldest childHow Olivia turned childhood grief into gratitude and purposeWhy non-negotiable family routines matterHow Olivia and her mom now bond through entrepreneurshipAdvice every working parent needs to hear from a child’s perspective🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Introduction to Olivia Woo02:00 Growing up alongside a dental practice05:00 Childhood grief and missing moments08:00 Reframing sacrifice with gratitude11:00 Choosing entrepreneurship over dentistry14:00 Creating space for children of entrepreneurs18:00 Learning through observation — “kids are always listening”21:00 Being the oldest of four and maturing early25:00 The role of Olivia’s dad and family dynamics28:00 What Olivia would do differently as a future parent31:00 Advice to dentist parents building businesses34:00 How Olivia and her mom work together today37:00 Final reflections and future visionConnect with OliviaLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-woo-737328333/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/livw18/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Marissa Gonzalez—the OG unicorn of Thrive Tribe and a powerful voice in dental marketing—to unpack what marketing really is when you strip away the noise, metrics, and performative strategies.With a background in journalism and a heart for storytelling, Marissa brings a refreshing, grounded perspective to branding, hiring, and personal voice. We talk about why marketing isn’t about being slick or salesy, but about finding the story that’s already there—and having the courage to tell it honestly.This conversation goes far beyond marketing tactics. We dive into identity, evolution, manifestation, burnout, pivoting without shame, and the seasons of life that shape how we show up professionally and personally. From building authentic brands to honoring when it’s time to change direction, this episode is an invitation to slow down, listen inward, and trust your voice.If you’ve ever felt boxed in by what you think your brand should be, struggled to articulate who you really are, or questioned whether changing your mind means you failed—this conversation is for you.You’ll learn:Why marketing is really about storytelling, not tacticsHow personal voice and brand identity evolve over timeThe connection between journalism, marketing, and advocacyWhy clarity doesn’t mean rigidity—and pivots aren’t failuresHow seasonal changes (in life and business) shape creativity and energyWhat authenticity actually looks like in dental marketingWhy leading with values builds connection—not discountsHow Marissa’s hiring-focused marketing playbook supports dental teamsWhy listening to yourself is the most powerful branding strategy🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Experience:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 Marissa’s journey into dental marketing04:00 Marketing as storytelling, not selling06:00 Why authenticity attracts the right people08:00 Journalism, voice, and advocacy10:00 Finding clarity without becoming rigid12:00 Manifestation, mindset, and evolving goals15:00 Why pivots are not failures17:00 Burnout, seasons, and honoring transitions20:00 Personal branding through real life moments23:00 Animals, nature, and lessons in leadership26:00 Marketing beyond metrics and algorithms28:00 The DSM Marketing Sparkle Playbook30:00 Using your voice for good32:00 Final reflections and takeawaysConnect with MarissaInstagram: @marketingwithriss Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Nathaniel Baker—Key Account Executive at Overjet and one of the most refreshingly honest voices emerging in dental leadership.Nathaniel hasn’t been in dentistry forever—and that’s exactly what makes his perspective so powerful. With a background in physiology, physical therapy, and sales, he brings a grounded, human lens to leadership, technology, and personal growth in an industry that often prioritizes performance over people.Our conversation moves far beyond AI and innovation. We talk about the climb—what it really takes to grow as a leader, a clinician, and a human being. From hiking fourteeners in Colorado with his dad, to navigating OCD, anxiety, and ADHD, to redefining success as inner peace rather than external validation, this episode is raw, reflective, and deeply relatable.We also explore the role of AI in dentistry—specifically how tools like Overjet can support (not replace) clinical judgment, reduce burnout, and create healthier systems—but only when practices are willing to pair technology with accountability, communication, and culture.This is not a how-to episode.It’s a come-home-to-yourself conversation.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by change, burned out by systems that don’t serve you, or successful on paper but unsettled inside—this one’s for you.You’ll learn:Why the real growth is always in the climb, not the milestoneHow hiking, fitness, and business leadership mirror each otherThe difference between “change management” and what Nathaniel calls “suck management”How AI should support clinicians—not become a magic bulletWhy poor systems and bad “form” drive burnout in dental officesHow avoiding hard conversations erodes culture and leadershipWhy inner peace—not productivity—is the ultimate measure of successHow choosing responsibility restores personal powerWhy you are already enough—even before you “figure it all out”We talk about:00:00 Welcome + what Real Talk of Dental is really about02:00 Nathaniel’s path into dentistry and Overjet05:00 Lessons from hiking fourteeners and embracing the climb09:00 Presence, patience, and why the summit is often anticlimactic13:00 Choosing your “hard” in leadership and life16:00 Fitness, foundations, and fixing bad form before adding weight20:00 AI in dentistry: support vs. shortcuts24:00 Why technology can’t replace culture or communication28:00 Avoiding hard conversations—and the cost of avoidance32:00 Mental health in dentistry: anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and honesty36:00 Responsibility, victimhood, and reclaiming personal power40:00 Redefining success as inner peace43:00 Final reflections: choosing yourself and walking the pathConnect with NathanielCompany: OverjetConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222TAGS FOR YTdental leadership, mental health in dentistry, burnout in dental offices, dental practice culture, AI in dentistry, Overjet AI, leadership mindset, personal growth in dentistry, dental executive insights, dental team communication, dentist wellness, managing anxiety ADHD OCD, dental technology adoption, dental coaching, dental office systems, dental innovation, dental career development, resilience in dentistry, mindfulness in dentistry, dental industry leadership

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Melanie Silvestrini—a dentist, creator, coach, and rising voice in the profession who is redefining what it means to be a clinician in today’s world.At just 30 years old, Dr. Melanie has already built a powerful personal brand by blending clinical excellence with creativity, spirituality, and deep self-awareness. Her journey—from dental school to pageantry, from New York to Miami, and from perfectionism to purpose—reveals what’s possible when dentists allow themselves to be fully expressed both personally and professionally.We talk about the often-unspoken emptiness that can come after “checking all the boxes,” why dentistry rarely teaches identity or positioning, and how doing inner work can completely transform how you practice, lead, and live. Dr. Melanie also shares her perspective as a dental influencer—what responsibility comes with visibility, how she approaches brand partnerships with integrity, and why evidence-based expression matters.This conversation is especially powerful for associates, early-career dentists, and anyone feeling burned out, boxed in, or disconnected from their original “why.” If you’ve ever felt called to build a career that reflects all of who you are—not just your clinical skills—this episode will resonate deeply.You’ll learn:Why success without alignment can still feel emptyHow pageantry sparked Dr. Melanie’s self-discovery and confidenceThe importance of identity work before marketing or brandingWhy dentists are rarely taught positioning—and why it mattersHow associates can (and should) build their own authentic brandThe role of creativity, spirituality, and somatic awareness in dentistryWhat ethical influence looks like in the dental spaceHow perfectionism holds dentists back from being seenWhy intentional living is essential for long-term fulfillment🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro & why Dr. Melanie is redefining dentistry02:00 From dental school to pageantry: the beginning of identity work06:00 Success, emptiness, and realizing something was missing09:00 Somatic work, intuition, and self-regulation13:00 Blending spirituality, creativity, and science in dentistry17:00 Leaving New York for Miami and trusting the calling21:00 Dentistry as artistry and whole-body care24:00 Social media, responsibility, and being a dental influencer27:00 Ethical brand partnerships and evidence-based visibility30:00 Coaching dentists through identity and positioning33:00 Why associates must think like business owners36:00 Perfectionism, burnout, and fear of being seen39:00 Auditing your life and career with intention42:00 What’s next: podcasting, biologic dentistry, and education45:00 Final reflections on purpose, courage, and alignmentConnect with Dr. Melanie:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelaniesilvestriniConnect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/📞 Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Brittany Rogars—Open Dental savant, founder of SKF Practice Solutions, and the woman quietly rescuing front office teams from burnout one button click at a time.Brittany started in dentistry with zero experience, simply trying to support her young family. Today, she’s one of the most respected experts in Open Dental software, known for her ability to walk into an office, spot years of inefficiencies within minutes, and rebuild systems that actually make sense for humans—not just software.But this conversation goes far beyond tech.We dive into the hidden emotional toll broken systems create: burnout, frustration, overwhelm, resentment, high turnover, and team members who feel unheard and unsupported. Brittany explains how offices unintentionally build “Frankenstein systems,” how workarounds compound into chaos, and why most teams don’t even realize how much unnecessary weight they’re carrying until it collapses.This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever wondered:Why is my front office always overwhelmed?Why do our analytics never seem accurate?Why do our best team members burn out?Why do systems feel harder than they should be?Brittany breaks down:Why most practice management systems are being used incorrectlyThe real reason front office teams feel exhausted and unsupportedHow converting to Open Dental can backfire without the right trainingWhy “you don’t know what you don’t know” is the root cause of data chaosHow tiny inefficiencies compound into full-blown burnoutThe truth behind third-party analytics and why your numbers are often wrongThe foundational systems every office should implement before scalingWhy burnout isn’t a people problem—it’s a systems problemIf you care about consistency, morale, data accuracy, team retention, or simply want your practice to run like a place humans enjoy working in… this is your episode.You’ll learn:Why the overwhelming majority of practices are misusing their softwareHow “old system habits” sabotage new systems like Open DentalThe compounding effect of workarounds and Band-Aid solutionsWhy analytics tools show garbage numbers—and how to fix itHow burnout often originates from broken systems, not broken peopleThe simple Open Dental settings and shortcuts that save HOURSHow to rebuild systems thoughtfully so your team can breathe againWhy leaders must stop glorifying grind culture and start creating stabilityWe talk about:00:00 Intro00:30 Brittany’s story—from new mom to Open Dental expert02:00 The most common mistake offices make when switching software04:30 “Frankensteining” systems and recreating old inefficiencies06:30 Hidden data problems and why numbers rarely match reality09:00 Why team members burn out and what leaders don’t see12:00 The snowball effect: how one small inefficiency becomes a crisis15:00 Why YouTube training and DIY conversions don’t work17:00 The emotional load front office teams carry19:00 Quick wins: the buttons, settings, and tweaks that change everything22:00 Brittany’s personal burnout story and why she built her company24:00 What leaders misunderstand about turnover26:00 The myth of limitless capacity and the danger of hustle culture29:00 Why fixing systems is the REAL retention strategy31:00 Final takeaways & why simplifying systems is an act of leadershipConnect with BrittanyWebsite: skfpracticesolutions.comInstagram: @skfpracticesolutionsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-rogars-641736236/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Steve Craig—a 25-year veteran in dental sales, national educator on water safety, and someone I proudly call one of the biggest supporters of this show.Steve has seen dentistry evolve from every angle: vendors, practice operations, the business of dentistry, patient expectations, and the massive changes brought by technology and AI. But despite all the innovation, he believes one of the biggest threats in dentistry is something shockingly simple—and almost never talked about: water.We go deep into dentistry’s “dirty little secret”: the fact that up to 70% of offices do not test, shock, or treat their dental unit waterlines, leaving patients and team members exposed to harmful bacteria, biofilm, aerosols, and preventable infections.Steve breaks down:Why water is the number one instrument used in dentistryWhy contaminated waterlines are a growing liabilityWhat every practice must do to protect patients and their teamHow states like Washington and Georgia are already legislating water safetyWhy aerosols come from waterlines—not patientsThe business, legal, and ethical consequences of ignoring water protocolsBut this episode isn’t just about water. We also explore leadership, the changing buyer landscape, team culture, the evolution of dentistry, abundant thinking, and why getting back to fundamentals always wins.If you’re a dentist, hygienist, assistant, office manager, or coach in dentistry, this episode is a must-listen. It could change how you protect your patients—and yourself.You’ll learn:Why water safety is dentistry’s most overlooked compliance issueHow contaminated lines impact patients and team membersWhy 70% of practices are unknowingly out of complianceWhat we learned from the Anaheim pediatric infection outbreakThe correct order: test → shock → maintainWhy aerosols come from dental unit waterlines, not patientsHow ignoring water safety becomes an $80K-per-incident legal riskWhy “playing the long game” matters more than everThe mindset shift from competition to abundance in dentistryWhy supporting your team is the #1 driver of patient care and community impact🔗 Join the community & submit anonymous questions:https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental:https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Welcome + why Steve is one of the show’s biggest supporters01:00 The biggest shifts Steve has seen in 25 years of dental sales04:00 The return to fundamentals in an era of noise, AI, and overwhelm07:00 Smarter—and more confused—buyers: navigating today’s landscape09:00 Why team-first leadership always produces better patient care11:00 Abundance mindset: there’s a dental home for everyone13:00 The truth about competition: focus on your “own plot of land”16:00 Why water safety is dentistry’s dirty secret17:00 70% of offices don’t test, shock, or treat their water20:00 What happened in the Anaheim pulpotomy outbreak23:00 Water as dentistry’s #1 instrument—and biggest blind spot25:00 The real source of aerosols (it’s not the patient)26:00 Why team members face high rates of eye, ear & respiratory infections27:00 How Solmetex is building an end-to-end water safety ecosystem29:00 Prevention is the future: the shift away from “drill and fill”30:00 Why patients want to die with their teeth—not dentures31:00 Where practices go wrong: time, shortcuts, and gambling with compliance34:00 The legal and financial consequences of contaminated water36:00 What M&A advisors are seeing with waterline liability38:00 Team members often report offices—they know what’s happening39:00 Final takeaways + why leadership is always about doing the right thingConnect with Steve:LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/stevecraig20/Connect with me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/https://courageandjoyatwork.com/https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Valerie Woo—pediatric dentist, founder of Valerie Woo Consulting, high-capacity achiever, and a powerhouse advocate for helping women dentists reclaim their joy, identity, and sanity.Dr. Woo built a thriving multimillion-dollar pediatric practice from scratch straight out of residency… with a newborn, $2M in debt, zero business training, and nothing but grit. Two decades later, after selling her practice to a DSO and navigating identity loss, burnout, motherhood, leadership, and the real emotional cost of ownership, she’s now on a mission to teach other women what she never had: a healthier, more humane path to success.This conversation goes deep.We talk about the fantasy of practice ownership vs. the brutal behind-the-scenes reality, the pressure on women to “do it all,” the hidden suffering so many dentists carry, and what it really takes to redefine yourself once the title, the hustle, and the identity begin to fall away.If you’ve ever cried between patients, felt guilty walking through your own front door, or believed success must come with suffering—you need this episode.You’ll learn:• The invisible burdens women dentists carry that no one talks about• How debt, pressure, and “earning it” culture fuel burnout• The identity crisis many owners face after selling• Why women feel guilty celebrating their success• How high-achievers can set boundaries without losing ambition• The myth of the “perfect owner” and the Pinterest version of dentistry• Why saying “no” is a complete sentence• How to build a business without sacrificing yourself or your family🔗 Join the community & submit anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Explore The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro01:00 The pressure on women to be perfect, put-together, and endlessly capable02:00 Dr. Woo’s journey from residency → newborn → $2M loan → startup practice05:00 The emotional crash after selling her practice06:30 Losing her identity & redefining who she is beyond dentistry09:00 Navigating the DSO partnership while still practicing10:30 The early years: newborns, debt, chaos & “build-the-plane-while-flying-it”12:00 Why women feel they must suffer to deserve success14:00 The achiever mentality & tying worth to productivity17:00 The power of looking back 5 years—not just forward18:30 Celebrating wins (and why achievers struggle with it)20:00 The role of mentors, coaches & healthy mirrors21:00 Growth stages, burnout cycles & hitting multiple walls23:00 Being a high-capacity woman—and the risk of saying “yes” too much25:00 Boundary-setting and the “not right now” list27:00 Overscheduling, overwhelm & the myth that “you can do it all”29:00 The fantasy vs. reality of practice ownership31:00 The financial stress no one tells you about (loans, payroll, second mortgages)33:00 Competitive culture in dentistry & why it’s so isolating35:00 Why women dentists often carry more emotional weight37:00 The wakeup call: giving your family the “leftovers”38:00 Reinventing yourself after selling your practice39:00 Dr. Woo’s new journey helping young entrepreneurs41:00 Parenting in the “messy middle” & rediscovering identity43:00 Closing reflectionsConnect with Dr. Valerie WooInstagram: @drvaleriewooConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com/Leadership Experience: https://leadhershipexperience.com/Phone: 616-682-6222

In this deeply honest part-two conversation with Dr. Jeff Grove, we pull back the curtain on one of the most emotionally charged topics in dentistry today: associateship—what works, what fails, and why so many docs on both sides feel frustrated, misunderstood, or burnt out.Jeff built his career from owning a single thriving practice with multiple associates… to leading 10 dental offices as clinical director and board member… to coaching dentists today through the realities of leadership, identity, and the messy middle no one prepares you for.And he doesn’t hold back.Jeff shares the raw truth about why his earliest associate relationships were magical—and why everything shifted when he scaled. He breaks down the biggest mistakes leaders make when hiring and developing associates… the emotional and financial pressures young doctors face… and how debt, fantasy, comparison culture, and misaligned expectations are quietly eroding confidence and trust across the profession.We also dive into something almost no one in dentistry talks about openly:money shame, conspicuous vs. inconspicuous wealth, identity shifts, and the grief that comes with realizing your career and life don’t look like the fantasy you once held.If you're an associate who feels behind, an owner who feels frustrated, or a leader trying to figure out how to build real connection—not just contracts and coverage schedules—this episode will hit hard in all the right ways.You’ll learn:Why the best associate relationships happen when senior doctors are boots on the groundWhat Jeff could NOT scale (and why it led to associate turnover)The role of debt in shaping urgency, decision-making, and conflictThe growing gap between associate expectations and owner realitiesHow social media is amplifying comparison, imposter syndrome, and impatienceWhy mentorship—not money—accelerates a young doctor’s careerThe difference between conspicuous and inconspicuous wealthHow identity, ego, and emotional development shape our career choicesWhy every associate needs peers, mentors, and people they can pour back intoA powerful perspective shift: “Where was I five years ago?”This episode is honest. It’s grounding. And it gives associates and owners permission to be human again.🔗 Connect with JeffWebsite: https://ascensiondentalcoach.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-grove-09297161🔗 Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas—public health dentist, advocate, and unapologetic joy-bringer—to talk about what it really looks like to build a fulfilling dental career rooted in service, authenticity, and humor.A 2018 graduate who now serves a Native American community in El Paso, Dr. Maestas has carved out a career in public health that defies the traditional “private practice or bust” path. She’s passionate about access to care, mentorship, organized dentistry, and reminding new grads that dentistry can still be fun.We talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, finding your footing as a young dentist, using social media as a vehicle for connection and laughter, and why being involved in policy and organized dentistry isn’t just for “the old guard.”If you’ve ever questioned your place in the profession, felt the burnout creeping in, or needed a reminder that purpose still exists in patient care—this one’s for you.You’ll Learn:How Dr. Maestas found her calling in public health dentistryWhat working in underserved communities has taught her about empathy and leadershipHow to find joy and humor in the daily chaos of practiceWhy organized dentistry and policy work matter (and how to get involved)How to navigate imposter syndrome and build confidence early in your careerWhy mentorship and community are the real antidotes to burnoutThe ongoing gender biases in dentistry—and how women are changing that narrative🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.comWe Talk About:00:00 Intro 01:00 Meet Dr. Tanya Sue Maestas – public health dentist & joy ambassador 03:00 Why she chose public health over private practice 06:00 Lessons from serving underserved communities 09:00 The joy and challenge of new grad life in dentistry 12:00 Using humor and Instagram to connect with peers 14:00 Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt 17:00 Finding healthy outlets outside of dentistry 19:00 Peloton talk + self-care for dentists 22:00 Why organized dentistry matters (and what needs to change) 26:00 Advocacy, representation, and the power of service 28:00 Mentorship and women’s empowerment in dentistry 31:00 Facing gender bias and building resilience 35:00 Final reflections on joy, purpose, and giving backConnect with Dr. Tanya Sue MaestasInstagram: @drtanyasuedds LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tanyasuemaestasConnect with BrandiLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino Instagram: instagram.com/brandi.marzolino Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com https://leadhershipexperience.com Phone: 616-682-6222

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of The Real Talk of Dental, host Brandi Marzolino sits down with Joanne Ignatov, a veteran dental assistant, educator, and passionate advocate for dental assistants across Canada and beyond.Joanne shares her 30-year journey from chairside assisting to teaching and coaching, revealing the emotional resilience, leadership, and untapped potential that dental assistants bring to every practice. From losing her parents during her training to mentoring students from around the world, Joanne’s story is one of grit, growth, and giving back.She opens up about the realities dental assistants face—being overlooked, underutilized, and often misunderstood—and how she’s on a mission to help them reclaim their voice, confidence, and value in the workplace. This episode is both a tribute to dental assistants and a wake-up call to leaders in dentistry: the people behind the scenes are the heart of the practice.If you’ve ever been a dental assistant, led one, or worked alongside one, this conversation will change the way you see the entire team.You’ll Learn:The emotional and professional challenges dental assistants face—and how to navigate them with confidenceWhy assistants are often underutilized and how practices can tap into their full potentialThe power of empathy, communication, and clear expectations in team cultureHow Joanne turned personal loss into purpose and leadershipStrategies for building confidence and community in the dental assistant professionWhy every dental assistant deserves to feel seen, valued, and empowered🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 – Intro 01:30 – Joanne’s 30-year journey: from assistant to educator to advocate 04:00 – Overcoming personal loss and choosing resilience 08:00 – Lessons from teaching: empathy, communication, and leadership in action 10:00 – The reality of being overlooked and underutilized as a dental assistant 13:00 – How utilizing assistants fully boosts efficiency and team morale 16:00 – Advocating for dental assistants: building confidence and community 19:00 – Real-world training challenges and the need for clear communication 25:00 – Fair treatment, pay, and career growth for assistants 30:00 – What to do when you’re stuck in an unhealthy practice culture 33:00 – Redefining your “why” and staying passionate about the profession 36:00 – Joanne’s advice: how to find your voice and build your future 38:00 – Closing thoughts: “You are valuable. Use your voice.”Connect with Joanne Instagram / Website / LinkedIn: [Insert links if available]Connect with Brandi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ Leadership Program: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Caitlin Parsons—better known as The Aligned Hygienist. A registered dental hygienist, yoga therapist, and ergonomics educator, Caitlin is on a mission to help dental professionals reconnect with their bodies, reduce pain, and live in full alignment—physically, mentally, and emotionally.Caitlin shares her journey from early-career burnout and chronic pain to creating a holistic practice that combines therapeutic yoga, ergonomics, and emotional healing. She opens up about the toll dentistry takes on the body and mind—and how true alignment isn’t just about posture, but living in integrity with yourself.This conversation goes deeper than muscle tension or chairside positioning. Brandi and Caitlin explore the emotional and spiritual weight that dental professionals carry, the unspoken grief that lives in our bodies, and how small daily awareness practices can change everything.If you’ve ever felt disconnected, in pain, or burned out from the demands of dentistry, this episode will remind you that healing is possible—and it starts with awareness.You’ll Learn:The difference between yoga instruction and yoga therapy (and why it matters)How ergonomic awareness can prevent pain and career-ending injuriesThe hidden emotional toll of dental work and how stress shows up in the bodyWhy “alignment” is more than posture—it’s about living your truthThe connection between grief, tension, and the physical pain we holdSmall daily rituals to reconnect with your body and self-awarenessHow holistic healing can transform both your career and your leadership🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.comWe talk about:00:00 – Intro 01:00 – The story behind The Aligned Hygienist 03:00 – Early burnout and discovering yoga 06:00 – The pain cycle of dental professionals 09:00 – Ergonomics 101: what most practices get wrong 12:00 – Emotional weight and stress in dental offices 15:00 – How grief shows up in our posture and nervous system 22:00 – The link between chronic pain and emotional trauma 27:00 – Realigning your body and life through mindful awareness 35:00 – Giving yourself grace for the season you’re in 40:00 – First steps for reconnecting with your body 43:00 – Small shifts that create long-term healingConnect with Caitlin:Instagram: @thealignedhygienist Website: https://thealignedhygienist.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinparsons/Connect with Brandi:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ Website: https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ Leadership Program: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with Kelly Duggan—personal brand strategist, success coach, and certified image consultant—who helps professionals master the art of showing up with presence. Kelly dives deep into how style, posture, communication, and energy all work together to shape how others perceive you as a leader.Together, they unpack how presence goes far beyond appearance—it’s about how you think, act, speak, and carry yourself in every setting, whether in scrubs, at a conference, or leading a team. Kelly shares fascinating insights into how color psychology, body language, and authenticity influence leadership effectiveness and patient trust—especially in dentistry.If you’ve ever wondered how to look the part without losing yourself, how to make your personal brand feel authentic, or why your scrubs color might be hurting your treatment acceptance, this episode will change how you think about “showing up.”You’ll learn:Why presence is more than appearance—it’s an inside-out expression of who you areHow posture, tone, and dress impact your credibility and connectionThe secret power of color psychology (and why black scrubs might not be your best choice)How associates can embody leadership energy and confidence from day oneThe 3 steps to aligning your inner identity with your outer presentationWhat most practices miss when it comes to branding, environment, and patient experience🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, Brandi sits down with the bold and hilarious Trish Mooradian — registered dental hygienist, mom, entrepreneur, and unapologetic advocate for hygienists knowing their worth and owning their power.Trish is on a mission to help hygienists stop settling, start earning what they deserve, and transform their hygiene careers into purpose-driven, profitable, and empowered lives. From working in toxic offices and feeling boxed in, to tripling her income on commission and building a thriving online education business — her story is raw, real, and incredibly inspiring.This isn’t just about money. It’s about self-worth, mindset, and freedom — in your work, your finances, and your personal life. Trish also shares her journey to sobriety, and how getting sober became the foundation for rebuilding her confidence, her business, and her life.If you’ve ever felt undervalued, stuck in burnout, or afraid to talk about money, this conversation will remind you that you are the entrepreneur of your own life — and it’s time to own it.You’ll learn:How Trish went from burnt out to building her own businessWhy commission-based hygiene can be more empowering (and profitable)How to confidently ask for a raise and advocate for your valueWhy tracking your numbers and production changes everythingHow sobriety and mindset shifts fueled her growth and leadershipHow to build your personal brand as a hygienist and expand your career beyond the operatory🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/We talk about:00:00 Intro 02:00 Meet Trish — the force behind “own your worth” hygiene 05:00 Burnout, toxic offices, and the moment she knew something had to change 08:00 Learning to advocate for herself and ask for what she deserves 12:00 Hitting rock bottom and choosing sobriety 14:00 Discovering the commission model and tripling her income 18:00 The business side of hygiene — and why no one teaches it 20:00 Talking about money without fear or shame 24:00 The link between value creation and higher income 27:00 Building your brand as a hygienist and leader 30:00 Tools and strategies from Trish’s RDH Superstar Bootcamp 32:00 Finding purpose through honesty, recovery, and leadership 35:00 Final reflections — why power starts with truthConnect with Trish🌐 https://risinghygiene.com📸 Instagram: @rdh.trish💼 LinkedIn: Patricia MooradianConnect with Brandi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Nicole Toudouze—a dental marketing and branding pro turned conscious entrepreneur—whose story is one of courage, authenticity, and reinvention. Nicole shares her remarkable journey from building a thriving dental marketing agency to intentionally dismantling and rebuilding it in full alignment with who she’s become.After years of external success, Nicole experienced a deep personal awakening—one that called her to redefine what success, leadership, and fulfillment truly mean. She opens up about motherhood, burnout, spirituality, and the ego death that transformed her life and business. Together, we explore what it really means to lead with heart, to balance ambition with alignment, and to rise from chaos into clarity.This conversation is raw, spiritual, and incredibly empowering for any woman (or man) navigating entrepreneurship, identity, or reinvention. Nicole’s story reminds us that when everything falls apart, it might just be falling into place.You’ll learn:How entrepreneurship can become the biggest personal development journey of your lifeWhat it means to “dismantle” success and rebuild in alignment with your true selfThe power of spiritual awakening and surrender in both life and businessHow women can navigate entrepreneurship while balancing motherhood and identityThe truth about burnout, boundaries, and learning to put yourself firstWhy authenticity, energy, and reciprocity matter more than hustleHow to recognize when clients and partnerships are not in alignment—and walk away with grace🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/#DentalPodcast #WomenInDental #DentalLeadership #DentalCoaching #EntrepreneurJourney #SpiritualAwakening #DentalMarketing #AuthenticLeadership #DentalBurnout #DentalEmpowerment #DentalCulture #WorkLifeBalance #DentalMentorship #DentalWellness #RealTalkDentistryWe talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:00 Nicole’s path from marketing to entrepreneurship 05:00 Building a business from scratch in her kids’ playroom 08:00 Fast growth and the lessons of failing forward 10:00 Learning resilience and not quitting through the hard seasons 13:00 Entrepreneurship as personal development and self-confrontation 16:00 Burnout, motherhood, and reclaiming balance 18:00 Awakening and the spiritual transformation that followed 20:00 Reconnecting with faith, purpose, and creativity 25:00 The courage to face ego death and live authentically 27:00 The reality of being a woman in entrepreneurship and dentistry 33:00 Gender bias and microaggressions in the industry 34:00 Why vendor respect matters and how to create alignment with clients 39:00 The power of energy, reciprocity, and conscious business 41:00 How to know when it’s time to walk away and rebuild 42:00 Final reflections and Nicole’s message to others on the journeyConnect with Nicole Toudouze Instagram: @transcendentalagencyConnect with me LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Grove—dentist, entrepreneur, and now leadership coach—whose story is as real as it gets. From growing up in dentistry alongside his father, to expanding into 10 practices, to ultimately walking away from the chaos to create a new life in Colorado, Jeff shares the highs, the burnout, and the wake-up calls that reshaped his definition of success.We dive deep into the “striver mentality” that so many dentists carry, and how it can both fuel achievement and quietly sabotage relationships, health, and happiness. Jeff opens up about partnering with his father, buying him out, scaling big, and then hitting critical life moments—including a stroke and his son’s battle with addiction—that shifted everything.Today, Jeff runs Ascension Coaching, helping new dentists navigate their careers with more self-awareness, balance, and clarity than he ever had in his early years. His honesty is refreshing, his story is inspiring, and this conversation is exactly what The Real Talk of Dental is all about.If you’ve ever chased “more” only to wonder why it doesn’t feel fulfilling, or you’ve questioned whether dentistry’s picture-perfect dream matches reality, you need this episode.You’ll learn:Why the striver mentality can accelerate success—and accelerate burnoutThe hidden costs of growing bigger too fastWhat Jeff’s stroke taught him about health, family, and prioritiesHow addiction touched his family, and how they navigated it with courage and compassionWhy self-awareness is dentistry’s most overlooked leadership toolHow younger dentists can reconcile expectations with the current reality of the professionWhy coaching and mentorship matter more than ever in modern dentistry🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/#DentalPodcast #DentalLeadership #DentalCoaching #DentalSuccess #BurnoutInDentistry #DentalCulture #DentalPracticeOwnership #DentalSelfAwareness #DentistLife #RealTalkDentistry #DentalMentorship #DentalWellness #DentalJourneyWe talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:00 Pearl Jam, music, and why it still matters 08:00 From working with dad to building 10 practices 10:00 The striver mentality—fuel and fallout 13:00 Self-awareness, Enneagram, and being a “three” 17:00 Life lessons from parenting, family, and slowing down 20:00 The stroke that changed everything 33:00 Navigating addiction as a family and supporting recovery 37:00 Starting Ascension Coaching and helping new dentists 40:00 Why expectations vs. reality are colliding in dentistry 45:00 Mentorship gaps and why leadership training is essential 47:00 Jeff’s biggest takeaways for dentists at any stageConnect with Dr. Jeff GroveWebsite: https://ascensiondentalcoach.com/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-grove-09297161Connect with me LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with Ken Kaufman—co-founder of Accruent, CFO, and unapologetic numbers nerd on a mission to drag dentistry out of financial guesswork and into clarity.Ken has been in the CFO seat of high-growth organizations for nearly two decades, and he’s seen firsthand how bad data, cash-basis accounting, and “hope-based” leadership sink practices. Instead of leaving dentistry stuck in outdated systems, he’s democratizing accrual accounting so practices of any size can forecast with accuracy, raise more money, and sell with confidence.This isn’t a glamorous topic, but it’s one of the most powerful. Because when you actually know your numbers, you lead differently. You stop making fear-based decisions, and you step into growth with authority.If you’ve ever avoided your P&L, wondered why your practice feels profitable but the numbers don’t add up, or feared what buyers would find if they looked under the hood, you need this conversation.You’ll learn:Why accrual accounting gives you the confidence cash basis never willThe top 3 consequences of not running your practice on accrualHow accurate forecasting transforms leadership, lending, and valuationsThe truth about selling to DSOs (and how to stay on offense)Why your relationship with money might be sabotaging your decisionsHow democratizing accrual accounting levels the playing field for all practices🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentalLeadership #AccrualAccounting #DentalFinance #DentalBusiness #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalSuccess #LeadershipInDentistry #DentalAccounting #DentalCFO #DentalCulture #DentalNumbers #PracticeValuation #RealTalkDentistryWe talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 Ken’s mission: democratizing accrual accounting05:00 Why cash-basis reporting keeps leaders guessing08:00 The matching principle explained in plain English10:00 The 3 biggest consequences of staying on cash basis13:00 How to transition to accrual without breaking your systems16:00 Hidden inaccuracies and the 5–20% variance most practices miss20:00 Selling to DSOs: how accrual boosts valuation23:00 Why leaders must go on offense in financial negotiations26:00 Dysfunction around money—and how truth empowers leaders29:00 Ken’s first “lightbulb moment” with accrual accounting32:00 Key takeaways for practice owners and leaders35:00 Why accuracy in numbers is the foundation of growthConnect with KenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennethkaufman/ Website: https://www.accrudent.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with public health hygienist, nonprofit founder, and relentless advocate Crystal Spring to talk about what’s really holding dentistry back: access, division, and a culture that ignores the patients who need us most.From her start as a hygienist serving nursing homes to building Smiles Across Montana into a statewide nonprofit, Crystal has seen the side of dentistry most of us never touch. She’s faced resistance, licensing complaints, and burnout-level challenges—yet turned them into fuel for changing how we see care, leadership, and each other.This isn’t about shiny offices or perfect systems. It’s about what happens when dental professionals bring heart, grit, and collaboration to communities that have been overlooked for decades.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by the system, questioned the power struggles between dentists and hygienists, or wondered how dentistry could actually heal instead of divide, this conversation will light a fire under you.You’ll learn:Why access to care is dentistry’s biggest blind spot—and what it costs our communitiesHow mobile clinics are rewriting the rules of prevention and treatmentWhy divides between dentists and hygienists only hurt patients (and how to bridge them)The surprising role dental teams can play in mental health and overall healthHow minimally invasive dentistry is transforming the patient experienceWhat leadership looks like when you’re building a mission-driven team from the ground up🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentalLeadership #AccessToCare #DentalHygienist #DentalNonprofit #PublicHealthDentistry #MobileDentistry #DentalCulture #LeadershipInDentistry #OralHealthEquity #DentalCommunity #DentalPracticeGrowth #MinimallyInvasiveDentistry #RealTalkDentistryWe talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 Crystal’s story: from hygienist to nonprofit leader05:00 The spark that turned into Smiles Across Montana08:00 Facing resistance, complaints, and why she didn’t quit12:00 Stepping into leadership and growing other leaders16:00 The hygiene shortage, policy barriers, and access gaps20:00 The divide between dentists and hygienists—and how to fix it25:00 Why minimally invasive dentistry is a game-changer29:00 Mental health, suicide prevention, and dentistry’s hidden role32:00 How to volunteer, donate, or support the mission35:00 Closing thoughts and how to connect with CrystalConnect with CrystalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/smilesacrossmontana Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crystallovesdental/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smilesacrossmontana/ Website: https://www.smilesacrossmontana.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with coach, consultant, and first-gen Latina leader Edna Abreu to talk about what’s really keeping dental practices from thriving: judgment, culture, and leadership that doesn’t go deeper than surface level.From her start in the trenches as a dental assistant to becoming a trusted consultant, Edna has lived the reality of being dismissed for how she looks, how she wears her hair, or the fact that she was a teen mom. Instead of shrinking, she built her story into her superpower—and now she challenges the industry to do the same.This isn’t about cookie-cutter systems or making every office look like a Pinterest board. It’s about inclusivity, culture, and what happens when leaders stop judging their teams by appearances and start seeing them as whole humans.If you’ve ever felt underestimated, written off, or stuck in an office that doesn’t value its people, this conversation will hit home.You’ll learn:Why judging team members on appearances (tattoos, hair, accents, hoops) keeps practices short-staffedThe surprising connection between inclusivity and patient trustHow generational shifts are reshaping dental leadership (and why Gen Z won’t play by old rules)Why culture is not a “them” problem…it always starts with the doctorWhat leaders get wrong about creating culture, and how to design a practice where people thriveHow to stop playing small and build a career, and life, on your own terms🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentistLeadership #DentalBurnout #DentistryLife #DentalCoach #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalSuccess #MindsetMatters #LeadershipInDentistry #DentalBusinessTips #DentistLife #DentalCulture #InclusionInDentistry #DentalTeamLeadership #DentalOfficeManagement #RealTalkDentistryWe talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 Edna’s story: from assistant to consultant04:00 What “experience” really looks like (hint: not appearance)07:00 Short-staffed or judgmental? The hidden hiring problem10:00 The cost of a “perfect aesthetic” in dental practices12:00 Gen Z, boomers, and the generational clash in offices15:00 Why respect is no longer automatic for doctors18:00 Breaking stereotypes about young moms, immigrants, and first-gen staff21:00 Culture is not a “them” problem—it starts at the top24:00 Why culture has to be designed, not tacked on26:00 Advice for people judged or underestimated in dentistry29:00 Grit, perseverance, and the influence of Edna’s family32:00 Why giving someone a chance can transform your practice33:00 Closing thoughts and how to connect with EdnaConnect with EdnaInstagram: www.instagram.com/thedentalculturist LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edna-abreu-aab34b351/Website: https://thedentalculturist.com/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with psychologist and organizational leadership advocate Jonathan Bonanno – known in the industry as Chief Psycho—to unpack the truth about culture, psychological safety, and the addiction to being needed inside dentistry.Jonathan shares his journey from corporate consulting in pharma and medical to the dental world, where he now champions psychological safety and leadership development. We talk about why so many offices struggle when top performers are promoted into leadership roles they aren’t prepared for, and how leaders can create environments where people thrive instead of coast.This isn’t about another system, another piece of software, or chasing popularity on LinkedIn. It’s about what really makes or breaks a practice: trust, safety, and leaders willing to trade performance masks for authenticity.If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on empty trying to prove your value, or if you’ve seen your office culture stuck in survival mode, this conversation is a must-listen.You’ll learn:Why promoting a “superstar” into leadership often backfires—and how to prevent itWhat psychological safety actually looks like in a dental office (and why it’s missing in most)The silent damage of reprimanding team members in publicWhy chasing popularity and being “needed” is a trap that kills impactHow to set goals that keep people interested instead of just chasing numbersWhat it means to lead authentically in an industry obsessed with perfection🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentistLeadership #DentalBurnout #DentistryLife #DentalCoach #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalSuccess #MindsetMatters #LeadershipInDentistry #DentalBusinessTips #DentistLife #DentalCulture #PsychologicalSafety #DentalTeamLeadership #DentalOfficeManagement #RealTalkDentistryWe talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 The story behind “Chief Psycho” and branding through psychology06:00 Why performance psychology led Jonathan to organizational culture08:00 Psychological safety: the foundation for leadership and trust10:00 The leadership trap: promoting top performers too soon14:00 How misaligned expectations break teams (and hearts)17:00 Apprenticeships, titles, and why some chase leadership for status20:00 The four factors of psychological safety explained23:00 Team events, pressure, and inclusion safety28:00 Open-door reprimands and the collapse of trust34:00 Rethinking KPIs: keep people interested36:00 The addiction to being needed and chasing popularity41:00 Becoming nobody: the power of presence over performance45:00 Advice to his 15-year-old self and why leadership is human firstConnect with JonathanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechiefpsycho/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanbonanno/ Website: https://chiefpsycho.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with CPA-turned-dental coach Doug Fettig to talk about what really happens when leadership and life collide, and how choosing curiosity, not perfection, can transform both your career and your joy.Doug shares the pivotal moments that shaped his path. From losing everything on a backpacking trip in Europe to the devastating loss of his son Parker, and how that grief sparked a lifelong commitment to helping people live with more purpose. He opens up about the lessons he’s learned in business, leadership, and life that every dentist, and frankly, every leader, needs to hear.This isn’t about QuickBooks entries, another piece of equipment, or the next big case acceptance strategy. It’s about the deeper truth: your mindset, your willingness to grow, and your courage to lead with authenticity are worth far more than dentistry’s “perfect” image.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to stop running on the hamster wheel, create a thriving team culture, or finally trust yourself enough to lead differently, this conversation is your sign.You’ll learn:Why most dentists are thrust into CEO roles without leadership training—and how to break that cycleThe surprising connection between grief, perspective, and living with joyWhat stops high-achieving dentists from asking for help (and how to get past it)Why outsourcing and coaching aren’t weaknesses, but acts of leadershipHow to trade perfectionism for curiosity and abundance—and why that mindset shift changes everything🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentistLeadership #DentalBurnout #DentistryLife #DentalCoach #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalSuccess #MindsetMatters #AbundantMindset #CoachingForDentists #RealTalkDentistry #DentalCareerInspiration #LeadershipInDentistry #DentalBusinessTips #DentistLifeWe talk about:00:00 Intro04:00: Backpacking Europe & lessons from losing everything07:00: Grief, Parker’s legacy & creating a nonprofit10:00: From accountant to speaker: finding joy in people, not debits12:00: Why dentists struggle with leadership training14:00: The seductive lie of money and “success”17:00: Pivotal career risks that paid off19:00: The power of mindset & choosing abundance21:00: Daily routines, dogs, and building joy into your mornings23:00: Brandi’s origin story: from geology to coaching dentists29:00: The real gift of coaching (tennis, form, and growth)33:00: Why leaders self-diagnose instead of hiring help36:00: Therapy, safe spaces, and the hunger to be seen37:00: Outsourcing ruthlessly & banishing perfection38:00: Advice for young leaders: choose curiosity over fearConnect with DougInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fettigdoug/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-fettig-cpa-mba-7042006/Website: https://www.dentaldollarsandsense.com/Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I sit down with dentist-turned-coach Laura Schwindt to talk about what really happens when burnout takes over your career, and how choosing yourself can open the door to an entirely new life.Laura opens up about the breaking point that led her from a thriving dental practice to a path of coaching, the messy middle of admitting she needed help, and the courage it took to rewrite her definition of success. From identity struggles to family health crises to learning how to pause for the first time in her life, her story is one that every dental professional, and frankly, every leader, needs to hear.This isn’t about another CE course, another piece of equipment, or another associate hire. It’s about the deeper truth: your health, your values, and your life are worth more than the “perfect” image dentistry often demands.If you’ve ever wondered what life could look like beyond the operatory, or how to finally listen to that inner voice telling you something has to change, this episode is your sign.You’ll learn:The real costs of “doing it all” in dentistry—and why burnout often goes unnoticed until it’s too lateHow Laura reframed her relationship with stress and why that shift changed everythingWhat happens when success is built on other people’s definitions, not your ownWhy investing in a coach or guide is not a sign of weakness, but a radical act of leadershipHow to trust your intuition and create a version of success that feels good on the inside—not just on paper🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #DentistBurnout #DentalLeadership #WomenInDentistry #DentistToCoach #RealTalkDentistry #DentalCareerChange #MentalHealthInDentistry #CoachingForDentists #RedefiningSuccessWe talk about:00:00 Intro02:00 When “Doing It All” Turns into Burnout04:45 The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything07:15 Why Hiring a Coach Felt So Uncomfortable (and Why She Did It Anyway)10:00 Learning the Power of Silence and Pausing13:00 Doubt, Imposter Syndrome, and the Messy Middle of Change16:30 Losing Her Team and Rebuilding with a Dream Team18:30 Family Health Crises That Sparked a Bigger Life Shift21:00 Letting Go of Other People’s Definition of Success25:00 The People Who Tear You Down vs. The Ones Who Build You Up28:30 Why Coaching Isn’t Failing—It’s Leading with Courage33:00 The Ripple Effect of Choosing Yourself37:00 Remembering Who You Are and What You Value46:00 The Power of Belief and the Ripple Effect of Coaching48:00 Embracing Challenges as Growth OpportunitiesConnect with LauraInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauraschwindt/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraschwindt/ Website: https://lauraschwindt.net/lauraschwindt Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this unfiltered episode of The Real Talk of Dental, we get real about the double standards, hidden biases, and emotional toll women face in leadership – both in and outside of dentistry. Drawing from my own experiences and the stories of women across the industry, I talk about the quiet, persistent patterns that keep women undervalued, underpaid, and misunderstood.From being labeled “emotional” for setting boundaries to watching male counterparts get paid more for the same roles, with all the resources you asked for and were denied, we don't just name the problem, we offer a path forward. This conversation is about waking up to what’s really happening, rooting yourself in confidence, and finding (or building) the community that will stand with you as you lead.If you’ve ever been told you’re “too much,” “too emotional,” or “overthinking it,” this episode is your permission slip to reject those labels and lead unapologetically.You’ll learn:The subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways women are treated differently in leadership rolesWhy emotional and physical burnout is often tied to toxic workplace culture—not just “life stress”How to set boundaries without guilt—and stand your ground when they’re challengedThe connection between your leadership environment and your physical healthWhy community is essential for lasting empowerment and change🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #WomenInDentistry #DentalLeadership #EmpoweredWomenInDental #DentalTeamCulture #RealTalkDentistry #WomenInLeadership #BreakingBiasInDentistry #LeadHERship #DentalHygienePodcastWe talk about:00:00 Intro01:05 Underpaid, Overlooked, and Replaced in Leadership03:02 When Setting Boundaries Gets You Labeled “Emotional”05:00 The Hidden Health Toll of Toxic Work Environments06:15 Why You Can’t “Green Smoothie” Your Way Out of Burnout07:10 Building Roots in the Empowered LeadHERship Experience08:25 The Cycle of Growth and Heartbreak in Women’s Careers11:20 Pushing Back Against the “You’re Overthinking” Narrative13:05 The Emotional Tax Women Leaders Pay14:30 Holding the Line Without Apology15:45 Waking Up Before Burnout Hits16:50 Call to Action: Share Your Story and Join the MovementConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this raw, no-filter episode of The Real Talk of Dental, I’m joined by two powerhouse hygienists and founders of LD Coaching—Laura Bettencourt and Danielle Avila—for a conversation that puts words to what so many in the industry are feeling but can’t say out loud.We talk about the silent epidemic of burnout, navigating toxic office dynamics, and the very real identity shift that happens when you realize clinical hygiene might not light you up anymore. Laura and Danielle aren’t just coaches—they’re still in the trenches, and they bring both compassion and fire to this conversation about reclaiming your voice, your standards, and your joy in dentistry.This episode is for every hygienist who’s ever felt dismissed, misunderstood, or stuck in survival mode. From difficult patients to diva labels to the brutal truth about temp culture, we name it all—and remind you that autonomy and fulfillment aren’t luxuries… they’re necessities.You’ll learn:Why burnout isn’t a weakness—it’s a signalThe real reason so many hygienists are leaving the opHow to navigate values misalignment with your doctor or teamTips for having hard conversations without burning bridgesHow LD Coaching is helping hygienists rewrite their careersThe importance of self-awareness, growth, and choosing yourself—again and again🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #HygienistBurnout #DentalLeadership #DentalTeamCulture #LDCoaching #DentalHygienePodcast #RealTalkDentistry #EmpoweredHygienists #DentalBurnoutWe talk about:00:00 Intro03:00 The Pivot from Hygiene to Coaching05:45 Burnout, Autonomy, and Finding the Courage to Leave08:10 Imposter Syndrome and Reclaiming Confidence11:30 What Most Offices Get Wrong About Hygienists14:00 Are Hygienists Really Divas? Let’s Talk About It17:20 The Real Cost of Temp Culture in Dental Practices20:00 Advice for Young Hygienists Entering the Field24:15 Navigating Change When Your Identity is Tied to the Op27:00 Serving Patients While Honoring Your Standards30:40 Toxic Patients and Learning Not to Take it Personally33:20 Standing Your Ground Without Losing Yourself36:00 What’s Lighting Laura & Danielle Up in Dentistry Today38:50 Final Words: You’re Allowed to Choose YouConnect with Laura and DanielleInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/diamondgirlscoaching/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083261114766# LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/diamond-dental-hygiene-career-coaching/ Website: https://ldiamantecoaching.com/ Connect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this deeply moving kickoff to The Real Talk of Dental, I'm joined by Dr. Brett Kessler—dentist, Ironman athlete, and the current president of the American Dental Association—for a conversation that cracked me wide open.We talk about sobriety, burnout, addiction, and leadership in an industry that often demands perfection at the expense of our humanity. Brett’s recovery journey didn’t just transform his life—it helped give me permission to live mine out loud, too.This episode is a soul-level invitation for every dentist, team member, and leader quietly struggling behind the scenes: you’re not alone, and help exists. We cover staggering mental health stats, the stigma around addiction, the power of peer support, and how real leadership begins with presence—not performance.You’ll learn:The behind-the-scenes truth of addiction and mental health in dentistryWhy I kept my sobriety hidden—and what changed after hearing Brett speakHow Brett is pushing to normalize recovery, change licensing stigma, and lead with radical transparency though his personal missing and work at the ADAWhat the IDAA is and how it's helping professionals and families heal togetherPractical advice for team members worried about someone at workThe 5 dimensions of wellness Brett uses to stay grounded in high-pressure roles🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.therealtalkofdental.com 🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Program for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #MentalHealthInDentistry #BurnoutRecovery #SoberLeadership #RealTalkDentistry #DentistWellness #WorkplaceBurnout #AddictionAwareness #EmpoweredLeadershipWe talk about:00:00 Welcome + Why This Podcast Exists01:20 Why Sobriety Was My Secret03:10 How I Met Brett & Why It Changed Everything06:50 The Gift of Recovery & Brett’s Relapse Journey10:30 Staggering Stats in Dentistry13:00 Why There's Still So Much Shame15:10 Enabling Culture in Dental Teams17:30 Real Resources from the ADA19:45 What to Do If You’re Concerned About a Colleague22:00 How Brett’s Leadership Is Fueled by Recovery26:00 IDAA, Family Healing & Sobriety as a Superpower32:30 The 5 Pillars of Dentist Wellness35:40 The Realest Answer to Burnout You’ll Ever Hear38:50 Brett’s Final Message to Dentists Struggling Right NowConnect with Dr. Bretthttps://www.instagram.com/bikodds/Phone: 720-989-7960Email: [email protected] for help:https://www.idaa.org/https://www.ada.org/resources/practice/wellnesshttps://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol-drug-hotlineConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ https://leadhershipexperience.com/ Phone: 616-682-6222

In this bold and unfiltered first episode, I’m sharing the real reason I started The Real Talk of Dental—and why this podcast isn’t just another surface-level industry show. From my journey from geologist to health coach to dental leadership coach, to my deep commitment to sobriety and women's empowerment, this episode lays the foundation for everything that’s coming.I talk about the pain I’ve witnessed behind the polished smiles, the burnout that no one wants to admit, and why I believe it takes courage to lead with honesty—and even more to create joy at work. This isn’t about fixing people with quick hacks. It’s about getting honest, going deep, and doing the real work to feel whole again.You’ll learn:Why I left holistic health coaching and found myself in the dental industryThe emotional toll of leadership—and why most consulting doesn’t go deep enoughWhy shame, silence, and isolation are sabotaging real successWhat Courage and Joy at Work really means (and why it’s not just a brand)My vision for this podcast—call-ins, Kelly the Oracle and everything in betweenHow we can normalize the hard conversations and build something more honest, human, and joyful🔗 Join the community and submit your anonymous questions: https://www.speakpipe.com/TheRealTalkofDental🔗 Learn more about The Empowered LeadHERship Experience for Women in Dental: https://leadhershipexperience.com/ #DentalPodcast #RealTalkDentistry #WomenInDentistry #HolisticLeadership #BurnoutRecovery #MentalHealthInDentistry #SoberLeadership #ShameResilience #TraumaHealing #WorkplaceWellnessWe talk about:00:00 Welcome + Why This Podcast Exists01:41 My Unusual Career Path (Geologist to Dental Coach?!)06:45 The Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything10:00 Behind the Smiles: What No One Talks About in Dentistry14:20 Courage, Joy, and Building Something Sustainable17:00 What to Expect in Future Episodes19:00 How You Can Get InvolvedConnect with meLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolino/ https://courageandjoyatwork.com/ and https://leadhershipexperience.com/ 

The Real Talk of Dental is not your average industry podcast—it’s a soul-shaking, BS-busting, variety show for dental professionals who are done faking fine.Hosted by Brandi Marzolino—a 20-year dental vet, leadership coach, and cultural truth-teller—this show rips off the polite mask and digs into the real issues behind the front desk: burnout, boundaries, broken systems, and the human stories no one’s talking about.Expect sharp leadership insights, anonymous confessions, chaotic call-ins, sketch-style reenactments, and mic-drop moments that make you laugh, cry, cringe, and breathe a little deeper.This is for the dentists secretly, or not-so-secretly, in therapy, the OMs carrying too much, the hygienists questioning everything, the team members who just want to feel seen – and the industry partners, vendors, and DSO players navigating the business of dentistry while trying to make it a little more human.With weekly episodes that blend industry expertise, emotional intelligence, and unapologetic humor—plus recurring segments like X-Ray Vision, Trauma Drama Theater, and the Real Talk Hotline—this is where the dental world gets real.Because in this office?Truth is the treatment plan.And humor? That’s the local anesthetic.Hit play. We saved you a seat.CONNECT WITH MEhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brandimarzolino/https://www.instagram.com/brandi.marzolinohttps://courageandjoyatwork.com/