In this episode of Spilling the Teath: Quick Sips, Dr Ryan Hungate is joined by Jennifer Steadman – dental hygienist, co‑host of the Back in 10 podcast, founder of Jen SOS and Director of Hygiene Operations at Inspired Hygiene. Together, they break down what everyday leadership really looks like inside a busy dental practice.

Jennifer shares how small behaviours can shape culture, why alignment and inclusion matter most during busy times, and how trust and communication influence team motivation and patient care. Drawing on her experience across hygiene, acquisitions, DSOs and coaching, she offers practical steps leaders can use immediately – all without micromanaging or burning out.

In this episode, you will learn:

1. Why alignment can slip over time and how leaders can rebuild it
2. The early warning signs your team may be disengaging
3. What inclusive leadership looks like in real practices
4. How trust and curiosity influence motivation
5. Practical questions you can raise today to support and retain your team

Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, practice owner or manager, this Quick Sips episode is full of actionable insights to strengthen culture, improve communication and deliver a consistently positive patient experience.

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