The Dental Handoff

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

Episode 172 | Built for the Long Game - Dr. Louis Kaufman

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to the Dr. Louis Kaufman!
Dr. Louis Kaufman is a 1995 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Dentistry, integrates clinical excellence, education, and research to provide comprehensive, patient-focused care. A Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry, he is recognized nationally for advancing the profession through lectures, publications, and leadership. Building on a 70-year family legacy in dentistry, Dr. Kaufman’s patient-centered philosophy has inspired practice growth and innovation across the country.
His expertise spans dental implants, cosmetic smile design, 3D imaging, and full-mouth reconstruction, and he joins the show to today to share his insights on how your practice can be built for the long game.
Connect with Dr. Louis Kaufman:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/louis.kaufman
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 171 | Hustle + Grit + Bright Smile - Anne Duffy

In this week's episode, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to the CEO and Founder of Dental Entrepreneur Media, Anne Duffy!
Anne is on a mission to shake up the dental world by building powerhouse communities. Through Dental Entrepreneur: The Future of Dentistry and DeW Life magazines, along with digital platforms, podcasts, and retreats, she’s uniting influencers to share their stories and spark change. With the launch of DeW Life (Dental Entrepreneur Woman) in 2016, Anne is championing women in dentistry, inspiring them to lead, connect, and make an impact. 
In this conversation, Anne reveals how a combination of hustle, grit and a bright smile helped her find the winning formula.
Connect with Anne Duffy:
Dental Entrepreneur - The Future of Dentistry: dentalentrepreneur.com
Dental Entrepreneur Woman - DeW Life: dew.life
 
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 170 | Why Can't You? The Glow-Up You Didn't See Coming

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Dr. Laura Schmindt!
Dr. Laura Schwindt, a dentist and entrepreneur, empowers high-achieving professionals to achieve sustainable success through holistic well-being. Co-founder of The Mint Door and the Mint Method Wellness Program, she offers life coaching grounded in certifications in Heroic Performance Coaching, Trauma-Informed Coaching, Somatics and Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology. Through her practice, Reclaim Your Radiance, she helps clients unlock their potential without burnout.
A leader in the dental profession, she's involved in numerous coaching and mentorship initiatives. Dr. Laura balances her professional life with mindful practices and adventures, demonstrating her holistic approach. 
Connect with Dr. Laura Schmindt:
Website: https://lauraschwindt.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlauraschwindt
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraschwindt
Heroic Workshop: https://lauraschwindt.net/heroic-workshop
The Mint Door: https://www.themintdoor.net/
More About Heroic
Heroic is a social training platform that integrates ancient wisdom, modern science, and world-class, scientifically proven behavioral design tools to help you show up as the best, most Heroic version of yourself.
We’re also a history-making, crowdfunded Public Benefit Corporation committed to helping create a world in which 51% of humanity is flourishing by the year 2051 as we strive to run our business the way we think our heroes would—with wisdom, discipline, courage, and love.
To join heroic, use this link: https://www.heroic.us/?fpr=lauraheroic
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 169 | Planted a Thought, Flipped the Hustle - Tam Patel

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Tam Patel!
Entrepreneurship and operations have always come naturally to Tam. After earning her B.S. in dental hygiene, she spent years providing clinical care and building strong teams in private practices.
Her passion for leadership led her to pursue an MBA and move into multi-unit healthcare operations, where she helped grow both people and profit for some of the largest dental service organizations in the country.
What set Tam apart was her ability to bridge clinical care and business strategy—fluent in both worlds. With over two decades of experience, she followed her calling to create something of her own.
In 2023, she launched Pretty Little Ink San Diego, which has since evolved into The Skinstitute of San Diego—a premier clinic focused on scar, stretch mark, and micropigmentation restoration. It’s the perfect fusion of her clinical expertise, passion for aesthetics, and commitment to helping others feel whole in their skin.
In today's episode, Tam shares her insights from her years in dental hygiene, and how she "planted a thought, and flipped the hustle."  
Connect with Tam Patel:
Website: https://www.skinsd.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskinstitutesd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tam-patel-rdh-mba-1153488/
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 168 | Real Talk At The Chair: Vitals, Vibes and Value - Thomas Viola

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to Thomas Viola!
With over 30 years’ experience as a board-certified pharmacist, clinical educator, professional speaker and published author, Tom Viola, R.Ph., C.C.P. has earned his national and international reputation as the go-to specialist for making pharmacology practical and useful for all members of the dental team.
Tom has presented over 1000 informative, humorous and engaging continuing education seminars and webinars to dental professionals internationally since 2001.
In today's episode, Tom joins Dr. Kelly for some "real talk" to discuss the vitals, vibes and values that go into conversations with your dental patients. 
Connect with Thomas Viola:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pharmacologydeclassified
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pharmacologydeclassified
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 167 | Grow Beyond The Op. Lead As An RDH. - Deborah Daniel

In this week's Dental Handoff, Dr. Kelly Tanner makes the "dental handoff" to fellow dental hygienist, Deborah Daniel!
Registered Dental Hygienist since 2004 in Ontario, Canada, Deborah holds a Masters in Health Administration from the University of Toronto as well as project management, Lean and Change management certifications.
Deborah has been working in health administration roles across the health care system in hospital, laboratory, community care and social services for the past 15 years and is the co-founder of Beyond Dental Hygiene, providing support for hygienists looking or needing to transition out of frontline clinical practice.
Connect with Deborah Daniel:
Website: https://www.beyonddentalhygiene.ca/
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