The Dental Handoff

Episode 188 | The Cost of a Broken Handoff and the Transformation of Getting It Right - Tia Meyer

In this powerful episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner and Tia Meyer break down one of the most overlooked yet transformative systems in dentistry: the handoff.
From the moment your patient walks in the door to the final scheduling step, every touchpoint is an opportunity to build trust, create value, and strengthen case acceptance.
Tia S. Meyer, RDH, is a clinical hygienist and the Clinical Director for a 11- location dental group, where she leads training, operational excellence, and team development across South Dakota and Nebraska.
She is an active advocate for the dental hygiene profession at both the state and national levels and is known for her leadership in building empowered teams, elevating patient care standards, and integrating innovative clinical workflows.
Tia is also a speaker, mentor, creator behind the One Day at a Time leadership brand, focused on inspiring growth in dentistry and beyond.
If you've ever wondered why patients say “Do I really need this?” after the doctor leaves — this episode is your breakthrough.
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 187 | Special Needs Dentistry, Autism Awareness & Inclusive Care in Dentistry- Dr. Jacob Dent

In this unforgettable episode of The Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Dr. Jacob Dent — a dentist, father, educator, and fierce advocate for inclusive dentistry.
From a high-school comment about “steady hands”…
to losing TWO dental offices to natural disasters…
to raising a son diagnosed with autism at age two…
Dr. Dent’s story reshaped not only his life, but the future of special needs dentistry.
Book Dr. Dent:
Visit Rare Bird Speakers to bring him to your next meeting or event. https://www.rarebirdspeakers.com/our-speakers
https://www.specialneedswarriordoc.com/
Connect with Dr. Jacob Dent
Visit Rare Bird Speakers to bring him to your next meeting or event.
https://www.rarebirdspeakers.com/our-speakers
https://www.specialneedswarriordoc.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 186 | When Your Career Calls For A New Beginning - Lynn Pencek

In this episode of The Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Lynn Pencek, RDH, MS—speaker, educator, implant maintenance expert, and former long-time clinical rep—for a deep dive into the evolution of a dental hygiene career that began at age six and led to national speaking, implant education, ergonomics advocacy, and business leadership.
Lynn shares her inspiring journey from early fascination with dental health, to hospital-based hygiene, to ergonomics education with Orascoptic, and later diving into the complex world of implants with Nobel Biocare. She talks about navigating steep learning curves, mentorship, transitioning into corporate dentistry, and why implant maintenance and chemistry compatibility have become her mission today.
Lynn Pencek brings a unique balance of industry knowledge and clinical experience. As a member of the Nobel Biocare team, she helped dental implant teams bring in new technology and develop efficient workflows. Being a Dental Hygienist, Lynn wanted to unravel the common questions and misunderstandings dental hygienists have about implant care and maintenance. Lynn is the founder of Practice at Your Best, she can be reached at Lynn@PracticeatYourBest.com.
Whether you’re a practicing hygienist, dental professional, educator, or someone exploring career growth in dentistry, this episode is packed with clinical pearls, career wisdom, and real talk about how to pivot, evolve, and stay passionate in this profession. 
Connect with Lynn Pencek:
www.practiceatyourbest.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnpencek/
https://www.facebook.com/lynn.minni
https://www.facebook.com/LynnPencekRDH/
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 185 | From Burnout to Breakthrough: Discover Your True Potential - Jodie Cantarelli

This episode features Jodie Cantarelli, A.A.S, RDH, DipAdEd, as she shares her journey from aspiring 15-year-old dental enthusiast to accomplished dental professional and leader. Learn how mindset, asking for help, and knowing your worth can transform your career in dentistry.
Jodie Cantarelli is a results-driven clinical operations leader with strong expertise in the DSO space. She brings proven success in project management, operational efficiency, and strategic planning. Known for her ability to lead teams, streamline processes, and drive clinical excellence, she excels in managing change and implementing effective organizational improvements.
With a background in adult education, Jodie is also a dedicated trainer and mentor who empowers teams through high-quality instruction and coaching. Her innovative problem-solving skills, visionary leadership, and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to any forward-thinking healthcare organization.
Connect with Jodie Cantarelli:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jodiecantarelli
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 184 | Dentistry. Chose Me: 3 Generations of Legacy, Leadership & Empathy - Dr. Brad Hughes

In this episode of The Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Brad Hughes, a third-generation dentist, entrepreneur, and mentor, to talk about what truly drives success in dentistry — leadership, empathy, and connection.
They dive into:
Why empathy and soft skills matter more than technology
How to lead your dental team with intention and culture
Overcoming burnout, ego, and comparison
Building resilience and confidence as a clinician and leader
If you’ve ever struggled with balancing patient care, leadership, and personal growth, this episode will reignite your “why.”
Connect with Brad Hughes:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bdhughesdds
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
About Brad Hughes:
Dr. Brad Hughes is the Founder & CEO of Vision Dental Partners, a rapidly growing dental group with 9 locations across Indiana and South Carolina. Under his leadership, VDP was named to the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies and recognized by Group Dentistry Now as one of the “Emerging Groups to Watch” in 2025—cementing its place as a rising force in the dental industry.
A third-generation dentist, Dr. Hughes proudly follows in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. For over 18 years, he has blended clinical excellence with entrepreneurial grit. A graduate of Indiana University School of Dentistry, he is deeply passionate about building high-performing teams, developing leaders, and helping others grow both personally and professionally.
Dr. Hughes’s entrepreneurial spirit and relentless drive continue to shape not only his expanding dental group, but also the broader conversation around what’s possible in dentistry when culture, leadership, and execution align.

Episode 183 | From Scubs to Stage: Canadian Hygiene Journey

Join Dr. Kelly Tanner as she talks with Lisa Moore, a passionate dental hygienist from Ontario, Canada, whose career journey went from hygiene school to orthodontics and now education.
In this episode, Lisa opens up about:
The reality of dental hygiene education in Canada
Why orthodontics became her calling
Balancing work, family, and personal growth
How investing in yourself changes everything
Her transition to teaching and co-hosting the RDH Canada Podcast 
This episode is filled with real insights, inspiration, and practical advice for anyone looking to grow in their dental career.
Connect with Lisa Moore:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/liisa-moore-855b9b240
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
About Lisa Moore:
She has been a registered dental hygienist since 2006. Throughout her career, she has worked in private practice, an oral surgery office, and even owned her own clinic, though her primary focus has been in orthodontics. Recently, she became a QA portfolio coach with RDHU and designed a course for dental hygienists focused on orthodontics—an area she is deeply passionate about presenting.
In addition to her dental career, she is a certified personal trainer, healthy eating and weight loss coach, and Pilates instructor. In 2019, she launched her training business, NOW Fitness, with a mission to help clients achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle rather than follow restrictive “diets.”
She offers one-on-one and group coaching to help dental professionals build strength and resilience to extend their careers. Her programs are designed around real life and realistic goals, ensuring that anyone can achieve lasting success.

Episode 182 | Mentorship + Mindset = Strong Dental Teams - Dr. Gary Radz

In this episode of The Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Dr. Gary Ratz to explore how mentorship and mindset shape stronger, more connected dental teams.
Discover how authentic leadership, clear communication, and a culture of trust can help your team thrive — plus actionable insights you can apply in your own practice today.
🎙️ Topics Covered:
Building trust and connection within dental teams
The power of mentorship in dentistry
Leadership mindset for long-term success
Connect with Gary Radz:
Website: https://www.coloradosleepapnea.com/meet-dr-gary-radz.html
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
About Dr. Gary Radz:
Dr. Gary Radz maintains a private practice, Cosmetic Dentistry of Colorado, in downtown Denver. His full time general practice focuses on cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Radz is a graduate and former chief resident of both AEGD and GPR residency programs. He has completed and been an associate clinical instructor for several post-graduate dental education institutions.
Over the course of the last fourteen years Dr. Radz has lectured internationally, teaching the materials and techniques used in cosmetic dentistry. He has presented at many of the major national dental conventions, and in 2006 he has been invited to be the presenter for the ADA's Post Session meeting in Las Vegas. He has published over 130 articles on cosmetic dentistry, and serves on the editorial board of 7 dental publications, including the Journal of Cosmetic Dentistry and has served as Editor-in-Chief of ACEsthetics and Mentor magazines .
In 2003, he was the program chairman of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s annual meeting. He will assume the same position for the AACD's 2011 meeting in Boston. In 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 he was listed in Dentistry Today's "Top Clinicians in Continuing Education" . He has  also been listed in 5280 Magazine for "Denver's Best Dentists", and served as a contributing editor for Denver's "BLOOM" magazine.
Dr. Radz served for 10 years as an evaluator for Reality Publishing and is a clinical consultant for numerous dental manufacturers. In working with dental manufacturers, Dr. Radz has contributed in the evaluation and developement of dozens of dental products. He had the original idea, and worked on the developement of the first automix composite resin build up material, LuxaCore, LuxaCore Dual, and LuxaCore Z by Zenith/DMG. In conjunction with dental manufacturers he has provided the photography and written the instructions for use of 5 different dental products.
His photography has been published on the cover of five different dental journals and he has provided photography of educational and promotional purposes to dental manufacturers and dental laboratories. Recently, his expertise in photography has lead him to be invited to provide promotional photography for local profession sports teams cheerleaders and dance teams, as well as photographing for an online swimsuit catalogue.
Dr.Radz has served as an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Colorado School of Dentistry in the Department of Restorative Dentistry since 2004.

Episode 181 | The Power of Connection and Growth in Dental Hygiene - Kelli Swanson Jaecks

In this inspiring episode of The Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Kelly Swanson-Jaecks — past ADHA President and global dental leader — to explore the power of connection, growth, and belonging in the dental hygiene profession.
A professional speaker, published author, and breast cancer survivor, Kelli travels all over the world captivating audiences and speaking with healthcare and corporate professionals who are burned out, stressed out, and maxed out.
Focusing on health and wellness issues, her presentations combine dynamic and information-rich experiences that energize audiences at events of all sizes. She brings high energy, humor, and ‘real talk’ to her presentations and is adept at customizing her messages to your audience.
Together, Dr. Kelly and Kelli discuss:✨ How professional relationships shape career success🌍 Global perspectives on dental hygiene and therapy💡 Mentorship, advocacy, and leadership growth💬 Actionable advice for every stage of your dental career
Whether you’re a student, educator, or practicing hygienist, this episode will reignite your passion for leadership and lifelong learning in dentistry.
🎧 Subscribe for more conversations that empower dental professionals!
Connect with Kelli Swanson Jaecks:
https://kellijaecks.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 180 | From Hygienist to Visionary Empower. Educate. Evaluate. - Alicia Murria

Welcome back to The Dental Handoff, where we bridge stories of purpose, growth, and innovation in dentistry.
In this episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner sits down with Alicia Murria, an inspiring dental hygienist turned entrepreneur, author, and educator. From surviving a career-changing accident to creating Hygienists for Humanity and publishing her powerful book “They Don’t Make Awards for This,” Alicia shares her heartfelt journey of resilience, leadership, and redefining what it means to care.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why dental hygiene chose Alicia — and how she found purpose beyond the chair
How she turned challenges into opportunities for impact
The power of saying “no” and trusting your intuition as a professional
Her upcoming CE Zoom program Hands On Demand and how it’s changing hygiene education
 “Trust yourself. Delegate. And know what you’re saying yes to.” — Alicia Murria
Connect with Alicia Murria:
https://aliciamurria.com/media-page/
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 179 | 40 Years of Dental Artistry: A Journey of Purpose & Reinvention - Michael Morgan

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Michael Morgan!
Michael J. Morgan received his DDS and BSD degrees from The University of Illinois Dental School in Chicago in 1985 following undergraduate honors at Creighton University.
Dr Morgan maintains a full-time private practice in Hinsdale, Illinois, with a primary focus on comprehensive esthetic restorative dentistry. He is an internationally recognized speaker and educator on the topics of esthetics and the latest advances in the rapidly evolving discipline of adhesive dentistry. He has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and has lectured and conducted hands-on courses throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, Canada, and Russia.
Dr. Morgan has been a senior instructor at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, as well as Co-Director of the Posterior Esthetics Course at PAC~Live, the University of the Pacific.Some of his memberships include the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and the American Dental Association.
In this conversation, Michael shares his story spanning across 40 years of pure dental artistry!
Connect with Michael Morgan:
Michael Morgan, Rarebird Speaker: https://www.rarebirdspeakers.com/our-speakers
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 178 | Patients, Passions & The Power of Connection - Ann-Marie C. DePalma

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Ann-Marie C. DePalma!
Ann-Marie C. DePalma is a graduate of Forsyth School for Dental Hygienists, Northeastern University and University of Massachusetts Boston. Her passion, dedication and expertise inspire dental professionals through her CE programs and publications. She has experience as a clinical hygienist, a faculty member, consultant and software trainer and is a fellow in several dental hygiene organizations.
Ann-Marie is an Esther Wilkins Distinguished Alumni of Forsyth Award recipient. Beyond dentistry, Ann-Marie volunteers in several local community organizations and is married with 2 adult sons.
In today's conversation, Ann-Marie shares her insights on connecting with patients and their passions. 
Connect with Ann Marie C. DePalma:
Website: https://depalmaannmarie.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmariedepalma/
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 177 | The Secret Ingredient to Loving Your Career - Sherrie Busby

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Sherrie Busby!
Sherrie Busby has been a dental assistant for over 40 years and has always had a thirst for learning and teaching. Recently retired as Dental Assistant Training Developer for Heartland Dental where she held that position since 2014. Sherrie is responsible for OSHA & Infection Control training content along with assorted general dentistry topics for dental assistants.
With a passion for general dentistry, safety and infection control Sherrie continues to seek out opportunities to continue her ongoing education.
In today's conversation, Sherrie shares the secret to loving your career!
Connect with Sherrie Busby:
Viva Learning
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 176 | Can Your Name Tag Change Lessons In Curiosity, Courage and Career Growth - Ilona Flett

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Ilona Flett!
Ilona Flett is an educator, speaker, and registered dental hygienist whose career spans general dentistry and orthodontics. As Manager of Clinical Development & Education at 123Dentist, she leads national initiatives that connect clinical excellence with practice growth, supporting teams across Canada.
Passionate about the research that drives modern dental hygiene—and curious about the role of artificial intelligence in dentistry and education—Ilona brings both vision and practicality to her work. She’s recognized for inspiring dental hygiene teams to elevate patient care while meeting practice goals, helping providers thrive clinically and professionally.
With her unique combination of frontline experience, academic training, and leadership in dental education, Ilona is shaping the conversation on how DSOs can foster meaningful growth in the future of dental hygiene.
Enjoy today's conversation!
Connect with Iona Flett:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilonaflett
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 175 | Double Life, Real Talk: Beyond Hygiene - Brittny Murphy

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Brittny Murphy!
Brittny Murphy, RDH, BS, COM®, QOM®, is a registered dental hygienist, certified orofacial myologist, myofunctional therapist, educator, author, and key opinion leader in sleep and myofunctional therapy. She is also a certified Buteyko Breathing Educator.
A 2011 graduate of the Forsyth School of Dental Hygiene at MCPHS, Brittny is the founder of CT Orofacial Myology and co-founder of MyoAir, where she has helped hundreds of patients improve their sleep, breathing, and overall wellness through private myofunctional therapy practices.
She serves on the faculty of Airway Health Solutions, training hygienists and healthcare professionals in myofunctional therapy, and is co-director of the myofunctional therapy program at Tooth Pillow. Brittny also shares her expertise as the host of the podcast I Spy with My Myo Eye.
Beyond her professional work, Brittny’s greatest joy is family. She and her husband, Kyle, love spending time with their twin girls, embracing the adventure of parenthood together.
Enjoy today's conversation!
Connect with Brittny Murphy:
Websites:www.orofacialmyology.com
www.themyohygienist.com
https://www.airwayhealthsolutions.com/myo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ct_orofacial_myology/
https://www.instagram.com/the_myo_hygienist/
LinkedIn:  
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittny-sciarra-murphy-29767158
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 174 | Toddlers, Tantrums &. Big Dreams - Dr. Ashley Lerman

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Dr. Ashley Lerman!
Dr. Ashley Lerman is the visionary pediatric dentist mom behind Firstgrin. Known across the digital world as @MommyPediatricDentist, her unique blend of professional pediatric dentistry and real-world parenting insights form the cornerstone of Firstgrin's mission.
Dr. Lerman's dedication to transforming the global narrative around cavities—the number one chronic disease affecting children—underpins her commitment to providing parents and caregivers with the essential knowledge and tools to build a strong oral health foundation for their young ones from the earliest stages.
In this episode, Dr. Lerman shares her experience with Dr. Kelly when it comes to dealing with all things toddlers and dentistry!
Connect with Dr. Ashley Lerman:
Website: https://yourfirstgrin.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mommypediatricdentist/
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 173 | Reigniting Passion In Hygiene Exploring New Paths and Possibilities - Susan Wingrove

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Susan Wingrove!
Susan Wingrove BS, RDH. Dynamic innovator, writer, researcher, and international speaker. 2016 RDH Hygienist Award of Distinction and 2022 Western Society of Periodontology Hygiene Educator of the year recipient.
Member of the ADHA, IFDH, and WSP. Highly skilled researcher, contributor to multiple product developments, instrument co-designer of the Wingrove Titanium Implant Series, ACE probes, and Queen of Hearts instruments for PDT, Inc.
Susan specializes in providing presentations, webinars, and workshops on protocols that follow the science for healthy teeth, implants, and disease treatment.
Published author; American and International journals on peri-implant therapy, regeneration, advanced instrumentation, customizing patient home-care, and textbook: Peri-Implant Therapy for the Dental Hygienist: 2nd Edition. Resides in Missoula, Montana USA to enjoy fly fishing, hiking, and snowshoeing.
In today's conversation, Susan reveals her secrets to reigniting passion in dental hygiene.
Connect with Susan Wingrove:
Website: wingrovedynamics.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