The Dental Handoff

Episode 160 | Create the Career You Want: One Conversation at a Time w/ Tama Martello

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Tama Martello!
With over 36 years of experience in the dental industry, Tama has a comprehensive background that began at her father's dental practice, where she started at the front desk. Her career progressed as she became a licensed dental assistant and later completed dental hygiene school. For the past 28 years, she has been a licensed dental hygienist.
Tama currently is the CEO and Founder of Martello Dental Consulting. Throughout Tama's career, she has held significant roles, including Director of Operations and Director of Hygiene, and has consulted on best practices across the United States. She has successfully helped mid-size groups and large DSOs increase profitability in their hygiene departments by ≥40%.
Tama takes pride in her ability to connect with doctors, hygienists, and team members, ensuring that they can deliver quality, comprehensive, lifetime dentistry to their patients. In today's episode, she walks Dental Handoff listeners through how to build the exact career you want, one conversation at a time!
Connect with Tama Martello: 
Website: https://martellodentalconsulting.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 159 | Building Your Forever Team: Culture, Communication & Mentorship That Stick- Charo Earle

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to the returning Charo Earle!
Charo has been in the dental industry since 1999 where she has held leadership positions in private practices, DSO's, and GPO's. Currently she is a Dental Officer and COO of a privately owned group dental organization in Michigan.
Charo enjoys her roles by leading and partnering with Operations and Clinical Leaders to train, develop, and support team members to achieve personal and professional goals, adopt positive cultural environments, develop growth mindsets, all in efforts to provide comprehensive patient care. She has always been passionate about educating, volunteering, and giving back to others. It is her mission to continue to use her knowledge to help support and mentor the next generation of dental professionals.
Early in her career, Charo's passion was ignited while working as a dental assistant and in hygiene school while doing rounds in senior nursing centers where dental care was almost non-existent. Her passion continued over the last few years working in highly state funded general dentistry practices, where dental IQ and prevention were low.
Charo truly enjoys helping people and being of service to those in need, and in today's episode she helps the Dental Handoff audience learn how to build their "forever team." Enjoy!
Connect with Dr. Charo Earle: 
LinkedIn: www.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 158 | Let Them Fail Why Delegation Is the Key to Empowering Your Team - Teresa Duncan

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to TERESA DUNCAN!
Teresa Duncan's career passion has been focusing on insurance & management issues. She is the author of "Moving Your Patients to Yes: Easy Insurance Conversations" and has contributed annually to the ADA’s CDT Companion Guide.
Her podcasts ‘Nobody Told Me That!’ and ‘Chew On This’ are resources for dental leaders. Teresa received her Master’s Degree in Healthcare Management. 
In today's conversation with Dr. Kelly, Teresa will help you discover how and why you need to let your team spread their wings and fly (or fall flat on their face) to truly empower them.
Connect with TERESA DUNCAN: 
website: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@odysseymgmt
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treeduncan/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresaduncan/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OdysseyManagement
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 157 | Five Procedures, One Purpose - Dr. Marc Liechtung

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Dr. Marc Liechtung!
A pioneer in restorative and cosmetic dentistry, the host of Dentistry Beyond the Numbers, and the inventor of Snap-On Smile. Dr. Marc graduated from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. His interest in restorative and cosmetic dentistry led him to invent the Snap-On Smile multi-purpose restorative appliance.
In addition to his thriving practices, Dr. Marc has spent the last several years evaluating and purchasing practices for Guardian Dentistry Partners giving him an insider’s perspective on what drives value in a dental practice.
Dr. Liechtung created 'Dentistry Beyond the Numbers', a podcast catered towards mastering the inner workings of dentistry for clinicians at any stage of their career. 
In today's episode, Dr. Marc joins Dr. Kelly to share his experience and wisdom with in the field of dentistry with the Dental Handoff community.
Connect with Dr. Marc Liechtung: 
website: https://dentistrybeyondthenumbers.co/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DentistryBeyondtheNumbers
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 156 | Owning Your Role As A True Health Care Provider | Rachel Wall

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist Rachell Wall!
Rachel Wall, RDH is CEO and Founder of Inspired Hygiene, a coaching firm focused on elevating hygiene services, systems and profits. Inspired Hygiene strives to help dental teams achieve a triple win with healthier patients, empowered, engaged hygienists and a profitable practice.
Rachel is an award-winning educator and has spent the last 30 years serving the industry as a clinical hygienist and hygiene productivity coach.
In today's conversation with Dr. Kelly, Rachel shares her insights on how to truly embrace and "own" your role as a true health care provider. Enjoy!
Connect with Rachel Wall: 
website: https://inspiredhygiene.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 155 | Escaping Toxic Workplaces: A Hygienists's Path To Success - Brooke Sergent

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist Brooke Sergent!
Brooke is a 20 year dental hygiene vet working in private practice. She served on the Colgate Oral Heath Advisory Board and organized a Bright Smiles Bright Future event in her town.
She is an inaugural writer for Today's RDH where she not only publishes monthly articles but also has published several continuing education courses, and is a Senior Office Specialist for BURST Oral Care.
In today's conversation with Dr. Kelly, Brooke joins Dr. Kelly to share her cautionary tale of success after escaping toxic work environments. Enjoy!
Connect with Brooke Sergent: 
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brooke-sergent-rdh-bs-042b45116
Email: brookesergent14@gmail.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 154 | Confidence In The Chair: Mastering Tough Talks with Doctors and Patients - Shana Iacovino

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist Shana Iacovino!
 Educated at the University of Bridgeport and Harcum College, Shane holds a bachelor's degree in Dental Hygiene, forming a strong academic foundation for my expertise. Her commitment to the field is reflected in her focus on developing and implementing hygiene protocols that positively impact patient outcomes and practice revenue.
At the heart of her approach is a collaborative spirit, working with dental professionals to foster an environment where knowledge and best practices lead to exceptional care. As a Regional Dental Hygiene Advisor, Shana's role is pivotal in optimizing practice operations while enhancing oral health care through evidence-based hygiene practices.
In today's conversation with Dr. Kelly, Shana shares some insights on how to have confidence when tackling tough talks with both doctors and patients at your practice. Enjoy!
Connect with Shana Iacovino: 
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shana-iacovino-rdh-phdhp-bsdh-10024b28a
Email: shana.weaver89@gmail.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 153 | Changing The Way You Work: The Future Of Technology - Dayna Johnson

In today's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Dayna Johnson!
Dayna Johnson is a dental practice management expert, podcast host and the founder of Novonee, revolutionizing the dental industry through innovation and strategic leadership.
With over 30 years of experience, Dayna's impact is acknowledged through significant awards, including "Dentrix Trainer of the Year" in 2022 and recognition as one of the "Top 25 Women in Dentistry" by Dental Products Report.
Her presence has been recognized on influential platforms like "The Thriving Dentist Show," "The Best Practices Show," and "The Raving Patients Podcast." She has also contributed to reputable dental publications like Dental Products Report magazine, Dental Economics magazine, and The Observer magazine.
As the host of the popular "High Performing Dental Team" podcast and an engaging speaker, Dayna addresses global audiences, sharing invaluable insights, best practices, and forward-thinking strategies. And speaking on topics ranging from "Numbers Tell a Story", "Enhancing Patient Experience" and "Workflow Optimization.
As an author of e-books such as "Going Digital," "Creating a Touchless Check-in and Check-out," and "Four Practical Tips for Bringing Real-Time Payments to Your Practice," Dayna guides dental professionals to operational excellence and improved patient care.
Her visionary creation, Novonee – The Premier Dentrix Community, exemplifies Dayna's commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation among dental professionals. Through her Novonee membership, Doctors struggling with day-to-day management of the practice get access to a like-minded community, educational support and resources that elevate operational success and patient care.
When Dayna is not helping dental practices overcome their challenges, you can find her spending time with her family. She’s a proud mother to her special needs daughter, Lauren, and the wife, and other half of the self-proclaimed “Power Couple of Dentistry”, Kevin Henry. She and Kevin love spending time on the green, playing golf, enjoying nature hikes, traveling the world and gathering around the TV during football season!
In today's conversation, Dayna explains how she helps to empower dental teams to live up to their true potential, provide guidance that transforms challenges into opportunities, and help dental professionals have the thriving practice they’ve always dreamed of.
Connect with Dayna Johnson: 
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dayna-johnson-7403b030
Websites: 
novonee.com (Company)
linktr.ee/novone(Portfolio)
membership.novonee.com/podcast_subscribe(Blog)
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 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