The Dental Handoff

Episode 152 | Balancing Priorities and Purpose - Chris Snyder

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Chris Snyder!
Chris Snyder is a seasoned full-stack marketer and media manager with over two decades of experience driving business growth and building impactful relationships. Chris is known for his dynamic presence at trade shows, innovative marketing strategies, podcast production, and ability to connect brands with their audiences.
Passionate about fostering collaboration and growth, Chris blends creative execution with strategic insight to help organizations thrive. From hosting events to producing engaging content, he is dedicated to elevating the dental industry and creating lasting value.
In today's conversation, Chris shares his insights on how you can best learn to balancing priorities and purpose within your dental practice. Enjoy!
Connect with Chris Snyder:: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-snyder-community
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082047363755
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissnyde02
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 151 | Leap of Faith: Turning Fear Into Career Power - Jo-Anne Jones

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Jo-Ann Jones!
A respected thought leader and international, award-winning speaker, Jo-Anne Jones has done over 1,000 presentations worldwide. Jo-Anne is a past honoree of DPR's Top 25 Women in Dentistry and joins the 2025 Dentistry Today CE Leaders for the 15th consecutive year.
A 2021 Fellowship Award with the International Academy for Dental Facial Esthetics was presented to Jo-Anne for her contributions to the field of dentistry. A frank and open lecture style and a focus on direct knowledge translation have earned Jo-Anne many loyal followers both nationally and internationally.
When Jo-Anne is not reading a dental journal, she enjoys family time with hubby Stan, 4 kids, and 5 grandchildren.
Enjoy today's conversation!
Connect with Jo-Anne Jones:
Website: https://jo-annejones.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007895866929
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-anne-jones-88a2266/
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 150 | The Power of Empathy and Curiosity In Dentistry - Sheena Hinson

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Sheena Hinson!
Sheena Hinson is a results driven leader and expert advisor with a passion for solving problems. In addition to expertise in the business of dentistry, Sheena brings 15 years of clinical experience.
This is why she firmly believes that you can have an ethically profitable practice that aligns with your mission, core values, and patient care philosophy all while bringing more joy into your workdays.
Sheena brings a wealth know of industry knowledge to your business. Her dynamic skills in business development, growth strategy, dental analytics, engaging leadership, and team alignment make her an invaluable asset.
Beyond her consultancy, Sheena is an accomplished entrepreneur, having founded her own company and as well as aligned with others that have specialties in Business Development, Technology, Dental Analytics, and Teledentistry.
Along with her team, she has also developed numerous training modules on business growth and development for business owners who prefer a do-it-yourself model.
In today's conversation, Dr. Kelly and Sheena how the elements of empathy and curiosity can help you achieve your goals and propel your dental organization forward.
Connect with Sheena Hinson:
Website: https://www.uplevelpracticesolutions.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheenaHinsonRDH
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/sheenalyn_rdh/https://
www.instagram.com/uplevelpracticesolutions_x_dso/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheenahinsonrdh/
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 149 | Building Trust And Overcoming Trauma In Health Care - Kandice Swarthout

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Kandice Swarthout!Kandice Swarthout, RDH, LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Dental Hygienist. She is a full-time dental hygiene educator in Texas where she teaches community dentistry and research. Kandice is the owner of Inspired Education & Wellness where she is a speaker, writer, and private practice therapist.
Kandice is trained in a trauma-focused therapy called Accelerated Resolution Therapy and a certified QPR Suicide Awareness Educator. Kandice is an approved provider under Texas Health and Human Services for human trafficking training for healthcare professionals.
She is also the owner of Muffins & Mimosas Dental Study that offers fun in-person dental CE that brings together friends in an inclusive and relaxed environment. She combines her clinical dental and mental health experience to help other healthcare professionals have a fulfilling work-life experience.
Read her articles in Dentistry IQ, Today’s RDH, and RDH Magazine. Contact Kandice at www.kandiceswarthout.com or on social media @The Counselor Hygienist.
Connect with Kandice Swarthout:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kandiceswarthoutrdhlpc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecounselorhygienist/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kandice-swarthout-m-s-rdh-lpc-74a4b66
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 148 | Leading With Empathy: Building Strong Dental Teams - Charo Earle

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Charo Earle!
Charo Earle, RDH, BS, MSA, has been in the dental industry for 21 years. In 2008, Charo received a Master’s in Health Services Administration from Central Michigan University.
In 2001, she received a Bachelor of Science and Certificate of Dental Hygiene from the University of Detroit-Mercy. Charo has held many positions within the dental field where she has worked as a Dental Assistant, Lead Dental Hygienist, Dental Retail Product Specialist, Corporate Dental Trainer, GPO/Consultant Client Services Manager, Dental Vendor Relations Manager, and currently she is a Clinical Services Manager with the North American Dental Group.
Charo resides in Michigan with her husband, two teenagers, and family dog. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her extended family, sorority, shopping, sports, watching movies, and helping others.
In today's conversation, Charo delivers insights from her years of experience in building teams in the dental industry. Enjoy1
Connect with Charo Earle:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charo-earle-053b836
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 147 | The Missing Link In Ergonomics and Self-Care - Caitlin Parsons

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Caitlin Parsons!
Caitlin Parsons is a Registered Dental Hygienist with over 15 years of experience and a former chronic pain sufferer turned Certified Yoga Therapist and Ergonomic Consultant.
With a deep commitment to the well-being of dental professionals, Caitlin specializes in helping teams prevent, reduce, and manage workplace pain, combat stress, and improve overall health. Her approach empowers professionals to thrive both inside and outside the office.
Through her speaking engagements, online programs, hands-on team experiences, and podcast, The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin champions wellness in the dental field to foster better patient care, stronger team dynamics, and long-term practice success.
In this conversation, Caitlin reveals the missing link in ergonomics and self-care that everyone in the dental industry needs to know. Enjoy!
Connect with Caitlin Parsons:
website: https://thealignedhygienist.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinparsons/
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealignedhygienist/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560773686963
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 146 | Reimagining Dental Careers: Empowering Hygienists To Lead - Ryan Rutar

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Ryan Rutar!
Ryan is the Dental Hygiene Manager of Morning Glory Dental. He knows how to make changes in the hygiene department to really make it profitable. His first time taking over the hygiene department, he increased production by 27% in the first year. His expertise lies in Dentrix software, coding, production pay, creating hygiene managers and effective communication. 
Ryan is a Past-President of NeDHA, and is a member of AADH, ADHA, and GLMA. He has published articles in Access & RDH Magazines and was on the Colgate Oral Health Advisory Board. He was a Nebraska's Dental Hygienist of the year and has received the "Heart to Hands " Award by Philips and "Change maker in Dentistry" Award by OnDiem. He has served in multiple rolls for ADHA and is on the RDH Editorial Advisory Board for RDH Magazine.
He is the creator of the "Rutar Meditation Toothbrush Technique," combining mental and oral health and is an International Speaker.Change is not always easy, but Ryan brings fun and humor to make the transition easier.  In this conversation, Ryan shares his insights on how dental hygienists can reimagine their careers and become true leaders in their field. 
Connect with Ryan Rutar:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryanrutarrdh
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 145 | Shifting Mindsets For Better Ergonomics And Patient Care - Katrina Klein and Abram Whitehead

In today's very special episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to not one but two past guests and experts in the dental field, Katrina Klien and Abram Whitehead!
Katrina Klein RDH, CEAS, CPT has been a prac9cing registered dental hygienist since 2007. She is recognized as an interna9onal speaker, author, compe99ve bodybuilder, cer9fied personal trainer, cer9fied ergonomic assessment specialist, and biomechanics nerd.
She is the founder of ErgoFitLife, where ergonomics and fitness are a lifestyle. She takes pride in teaching dental professionals how to prevent, reduce, and/or eliminate pain. com
Abram Whitehead spent most of his life around both dentistry and wellness. His grandmother was an instructor at a vocational dental assisting program, his father owned a dental supply company, and his wife of almost 20 years is a dentist. Together, they built a solo GP office that grosses over 2 million a year in a suburb of St. Louis.
Abram is a National Champion, and international competitor in the USAW masters Olympic Weightlifting. He has been coaching CrossFit and Weightlifting for 6 years, has 10 years of experience as a Chef and Pastry Chef, and an educator and mentor to dental teams and athletes. Abram graduated with honors from the Pierre Laclede Honors College of the University of Missouri - St. Louis with a B.S. - Accounting.
In addition to his wife’s dental practice, Abram has developed several companies, brands, and business concepts including a boutique 3D printing and product development company.
In this episode, Katrina and Abram join to discuss how they have both shifted their mindsets to achieve both better ergonomics and patient care n their practice. Enjoy!
Connect with Katrina Klein:
Email: Ergofitlife@gmail.com
Connect with Abram Whitehead:
Websites:
fenton-familydentistry.com
thinkalittlebigger.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 144 | Breaking Through The Setbacks: How Fitness And Mindset Lead To Recovery - Abram Whitehead

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to an expert in dentistry and wellness, Abram Whitehead!
Abram spent most of his life around both dentistry and wellness. His grandmother was an instructor at a vocational dental assisting program, his father owned a dental supply company, and his wife of almost 20 years is a dentist. Together, they built a solo GP office that grosses over 2 million a year in a suburb of St. Louis.
Abram is a National Champion, and international competitor in the USAW masters Olympic Weightlifting. He has been coaching CrossFit and Weightlifting for 6 years, has 10 years of experience as a Chef and Pastry Chef, and an educator and mentor to dental teams and athletes. Abram graduated with honors from the Pierre Laclede Honors College of the University of Missouri - St. Louis with a B.S. - Accounting.
In addition to his wife’s dental practice, Abram has developed several companies, brands, and business concepts including a boutique 3D printing and product development company.
In this episode, Abram imparts lessons from a career of entrepreneurship, broad spectrum learning, all with his unique emotional and high energy delivery. Enjoy!
Connect with Abram Whitehead:
Websites:
fenton-familydentistry.com
thinkalittlebigger.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com
 

Episode 143 | Smiles, Skills & Strategy: A Dentist's Journey From Practice To Leadership - Dr. Elaine Bylis

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Dr. Elaine Bylis!
Dr. Elaine Bylis graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Maryland, College Park with a major in Neurophysiology. She was inducted into the Phi Beta Kappa honor society upon her graduation. Dr. Bylis went on to attend the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and graduated in 2017. Dr. Bylis received advanced training in cosmetic dentistry from the Nash Institute and was honored to later return to the Institute as a guest lecturer. She has also received advanced training in Invisalign.
Dr. Bylis has been published twice in Dentistry Today. The June 2018 online edition featured an article she wrote about guided mandibular implant surgery and the December 2020 print edition featured her article about digital planning and surgery. Dr. Elaine Bylis was selected by Zyris Dental to host a five-part live video series that showcased women in the dental field. She was also inducted into the International Academy of Dental-Facial Esthetics.
In 2024, Dr. Bylis was honored to be named one of Incisal Edge magazine's 40 Under 40. Dr. Bylis practices general dentistry in a private practice in Glen Burnie, Maryland with her father, Dr. Paul Bylis.
In today's conversation, Dr. Bylis imparts lesson from her journey through dentistry, from practice to leadership. Enjoy!
Connect with Dr. Elaine Bylis:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/teambylis
Facebook: www.facebook.com/dr.bylis
Websites: www.bylisdental.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com
 

Episode 142 | Discover Your "Why" & Lead The Way In Dentistry - Erin Haley-Hitz

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to fellow dental hygienist, Erin Haley-Hitz!
A native of Nebraska, Erin earned her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from the University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Dentistry, in 1995. Subsequently, she obtained a Master of Science in Health Promotion and Human Resource Management from Nebraska Methodist College in 2002. Committed to ongoing professional development, Erin pursued additional education in myofunctional therapy, working towards certification in myofunctional therapy and lifestyle medicine at the Wellcoaches School of Coaching. 
In her professional capacity, Erin engages in general clinical practice and collaborates as a partner in Pearly White Prevention. Beyond clinical work, she extends her expertise through consulting services and coaching, empowering dental hygiene departments and their practitioners. Erin is also an active member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority and holds a position as a board member of Rho Chapter Corporation.
Erin’s dedication to ADHA spans an impressive 30 years, during which she has assumed various leadership roles within the Nebraska Dental Hygienists’ Association (NDHA), including a term as president and delegate. Her contributions have garnered recognition, earning her several awards, including the esteemed Dental Hygienist of the Year honors at both the component and constituent levels in Nebraska.
In today's conversation, Dr. Kelly and Erin dive into leadership lessons from Erin's years of experience in education and dentistry. Enjoy!
Connect with Erin Haley-Hitz:
Email: erinh@adha.net
Websites:
www.adha.org
www.pearlywhiteprevention.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance.
https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com
 

Episode 141 | Holistic Health: Nutrition, Sleep and the Power of Oxygen - Lacy Walker

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to fellow dental hygienist, Lacy Walker!
Lacy Walker is a registered dental hygienist, international speaker, author of the book Choices, and owner of Shared Hygiene LLC, with 25 years of experience in the dental field. She has worked in periodontal, psychiatric hospitals, cosmetic, DSO, and general private and military practices.
Lacy is the CE Director for A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast, a Fellow with AAOSH, and the Public Relations Chair and President-Elect for the American Academy of Dental Hygiene. Lacy is also one of the founding members of RDH Connect, has been published in DACE, Dr. Bicuspid, and RDH Magazine.
Lacy joins the show today to share her passion for the oral-systemic connection. Enjoy!
Connect with Lacy Walker:
Email: sharedhygienellc@gmail.com
Website: sharedhygiene.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance. https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 140 | The Heart of Teaching In Dental Hygiene - Jessica Atkinson

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to fellow dental hygienist, Jessica Atkinson!
Jessica Atkinson, MEd, BSDH, RDH, cofounder of Hygiene Edge and Assistant Professor of Dental Hygiene at Utah Tech University is passionate about all things dental hygiene.
Jessica has been in the dental field for 24 years with experience as a front office staff, dental assistant and Dental Hygienist. She has been in education for 10 years. As the COO of Hygiene Edge she seeks to “educate, grow and inspire” with dental professionals throughout their career with helpful videos, podcasts and other educational content.
Education is Jessica’s joy, from educating patients, students and anyone else who comes across Hygiene Edge’s YouTube channel. She has presented both nationally and internationally to continue educating, growing, and being inspired with her fellow dental professionals.
Connect with Jessica Atkinson:
Website: https://www.hygieneedge.com/
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hygieneedge
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hygieneedge
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@hygieneedge
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hygieneedge/
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect!
Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance. https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 139 | The Business of Dentistry: Growing Your Impact, Earning and Patient Care - Heather McGuire

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to Heather McGuire!
Heather McGuire is a transformative leader in the dental industry, with over two decades of experience in driving growth and excellence across both private practices and dental service organizations (DSOs). As Director of Dental Hygiene Development for Seva Dental Team, she excels in building high-performing teams, optimizing patient care, and driving clinical and financial success. 
A Master certified practitioner and Coach of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Mental and Emotional Release, and Hypnotherapy, Heather helps teams break through mental barriers, fostering resilience and growth. She is also a top-performing sales professional with expertise in both clinical and business aspects of dentistry. Heather’s passion for mentorship and operational excellence has made her a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the dental and personal development sectors.
In today's conversation, Dr. Kelly and Heather discuss how to grow a dentistry business in every way, from your earnings to the the care you're able to deliver to patients. 
Connect with Heather McGuire:
Website: https://www.mcgcoaching.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathermcguirerdh
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heathermcguirerdh
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heathermcguire_successcoach
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect! Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance. https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 138 | Growing Through Grief and Reinventing Your Professional Life with Gina Hanzel

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to Gina Hanzel!
Gina brings a unique balance of experience between dental education, clinical writing and chair-side dentistry. She graduated from the University of Minnesota with a dual bachelor’s in chemistry and biology and later received her Dental Hygiene degree. She brings nearly 25 years of experience in dentistry working in roles as an office manager, consultant and dental hygienist.
Gina recently left her 17-year tenure as a chair-side dental hygienist to start her new role as the clinical advisor for Orabio, Inc. She currently manages all new product launches and is responsible for the proper implementation and integration of the Orabio product line into dental practices nationwide.
In today's conversation, Gina and Dr. Kelly discuss how dentistry is always changing and how she takes pride in her ability to help patients understand their dental diagnosis, along with how to grow through dealing with grief and reinvent your professional life!
Connect with Gina Hanzel:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-hanzel-8a6a175/
email: gina.hanzel@orabio.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect! Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance. https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com

Episode 137 | Leadership Lessons On Inheriting And Managing Teams with Dr. Merlin Ohmer!

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the 'dental handoff' to Dr. Merlin Ohmer!
On Nov. 12, 2023, Merlin P. Ohmer, DDS, MAGD, was installed as president of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD). Dr. Ohmer, whose service to AGD is extensive and his knowledge about the organization is deep. He served as a board member, continuing education director, vice president and president of the Florida AGD.
He also served as Region 20 regional director and as a trustee for Region 20 until his election as AGD vice president in 2021.Dr. Ohmer earned his DDS from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry while in the U.S. Army Reserve. He then spent three years on active duty in the U.S. Army, stationed at Hunter Army Airfield in Savannah, Georgia. After release from active duty, he served in the Louisiana National Guard as a major and practiced in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
He then served in active duty in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps as a lieutenant commander. He retired as a captain in 2016 after 30 years of active military service. He then opened a solo practice in St. Augustine, Florida, where he practiced until 2022.Recently, Dr. Ohmer was awarded the James Frank Collins Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding members from Florida AGD who have made significant contributions to the profession. Ohmer will serve as president until Nov. 24, 2024.
In this episode, Dr. Ohmer emphasizes the importance of effective leadership, listening to your team, and knowing when it's time to let go of team members who aren't the right fit. He also highlights the value of empathy, resilience through adversity, and learning from failures to achieve long-term success.
Connect with Dr Merlin Ohmer:
Academy of General Dentistry: https://www.agd.org/
email: mpohmer@aol.com
Where to Find Dr. Kelly:
Let's Connect! Book a Call today to see how I can help you create high-performance teams, discuss educational programs, or how I can be of assistance. https://calendly.com/drkellytanner/30min
Visit us at https://www.nextleveldentalhygiene.com