Straight Up With Steph

In this episode, Jess shares her journey from dental assisting to becoming an educator and content creator. We discuss the importance of assistants and hygienists working harmoniously, her thoughts on assistants scaling, and solutions to the current hygiene shortage. 

Jess also dives into her path toward founding Hygiene Edge, advice for aspiring educators and content creators, and why building a supportive community is key to professional growth. 

Don’t miss this insightful episode with Jess from Hygiene Edge, packed with practical tips for dental professionals and inspiring advice for anyone looking to grow in their career. 

About Jess:
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 Jess:
All Social Platforms: @hygieneEdge
Email: [email protected]; [email protected]


Timestamps:

00:00 - Background in Dentistry
6:30 - Starting as a Dental Assistant
11:32 - What Should Assistants & Hygienists Know About Each Other?
15:35 - Jess's Thoughts on Assistants Scaling
19:12 - A Solution for the Hygiene Shortage
23:48 - How to Become an Educator
28:59 - The Birth of Hygiene Edge
35:19 - Advice for Aspiring Content Creators
37:23 - Find Your Tribe
41:17 - Connect With Jess & Hygiene Edge

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In our latest episode, Steph and Alyssa Aberle tackle a significant shift in the dental field: the ADA's recent resolution that allows internationally-trained dentists to work as hygienists in the U.S. without a board exam.

The conversation starts by questioning the impact of this decision on dental care standards and what we, as professionals, can do to address any concerns. Alyssa stresses the importance of being an active member of professional associations, especially now, and explores the role these organizations play in advocating for quality care.

They also discuss practical solutions to workforce shortages, including updates on new hygiene programs, challenges in hiring faculty, and the impact of interstate compacts for license portability. 

Alyssa closes the episode with actionable advice on building relationships within the dental community and advocating for positive change.

Listen in to learn how you can support the future of our profession!

To learn more about the resolution, click here

To see recent updates from ADHA, click here

About Alyssa:
Alyssa Aberle is a Colorado dental hygienist with a deep understanding of our profession and a big dream for our future. Alyssa has spent her dental hygiene career working with several local nonprofit and community health organizations including Kids In Need of Dentistry, Salud Family Health Centers, Colorado Orthodontic Foundation, STRIDE Community Health Center (formerly MCPN), and currently Deserving Dental.

While working with these organizations, Alyssa pursued a Master’s in Business Administration to gain a deeper grasp on organizational management and leadership.

Alyssa currently works in a mobile dental program serving homeless shelters and residential treatment facilities. Alyssa served as the Executive Director for the Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association for the past 8 years until recently moving into a volunteer position in the association.

Alyssa is passionate about advocacy and advancing the profession of dental hygiene. Married to a Colorado native, Alyssa and her family of 5 spend most of their free time outdoors hiking, backpacking, and boating. Alyssa loves rocking out to 90’s music, movie theater popcorn, and chai tea.

Connect With Alyssa:

Instagram: @alyssardh
Email: [email protected]

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Internationally-trained dentists & students becoming hygienists?
9:42 - What Can We Do?
14:19 -  Why It's Crucial To Be A Member 
16:18 - Trying To Find Solutions For The Shortage
21:53 - Update On New Hygiene Schools
25:04 - Challenges With Finding Faculty 
30:40 - Understanding The Two Compacts For License Portability
41:37 - Advice For What You Can Do
44:13 - Connect With Alyssa

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I catch up with Whitney, known to many as Teeth Talk Girl! We explore her journey through dentistry, her passion for battling healthcare misinformation, and how her entertaining videos blossomed into a thriving business.

Whitney also shares why she’s working toward a doctorate, how she deals with negativity on social media, and the purpose behind her unique merchandise.

Whether you're an aspiring creator or curious about the behind-the-scenes life of a dental influencer, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights!

About Whitney:

Whitney DiFoggio, founder of teethtalkgirl.com, is a passionate dental health communicator and registered dental hygienist, recognized as "Teeth Talk Girl" on social media (@teethtalkgirl).

With a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Illinois Chicago and a master’s degree in health communication from Arizona State University, she is currently pursuing her doctorate in health science at Eastern Virginia Medical School.

Whitney’s journey began on YouTube, where she shares engaging, educational dental health videos for both the general public and dental professionals. She creates daily content on YouTube and regularly provides valuable resources on her website (teethtalkgirl.com).

While still practicing as a clinical dental hygienist, Whitney’s enthusiasm for oral health is clear in everything she does. From her social media influence to her philanthropic efforts, she truly lives, breathes, and dreams about teeth—dedicated to making oral health accessible, fun, and engaging for all.

Connect with Whitney:
All platforms: @teethtalkgirl
YouTube
Website

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Catching Up With Whitney
5:00 - Her History in Dentistry
6:15 - Teeth Talk Girl Is Born
12:24 - Whitney's #1 Passion in Dentistry
13:02 - Her Battle With Healthcare Misinformation
19:11 - How Fun Videos Turned Into A Business
23:18 - Why She's Pursuing Her Doctorate
28:53 - Navigating Negativity on Social Media
32:39 - How She Gets Video Ideas
36:56 - Merch With A Purpose
40:47 - Advice For Aspiring Creators
44:29 - Connect With Whitney

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In this episode, Machele takes us on her journey into life coaching, sharing how she transitioned into this empowering field. We dive into the challenges of imposter syndrome and explore whether the thoughts we tell ourselves are actually true. Machele also gives practical advice for those navigating new career opportunities and provides insights on overcoming the habits of people pleasing. Tune in for her tips on how to stop beating yourself up and learn more about the transformative programs she offers.

If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, people pleasing, or just being too hard on yourself, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips you won’t want to miss. Machele’s journey and advice might be exactly what you need to shift your mindset and start showing up for yourself. 

So, hit play now and take the first step toward living with more confidence and self-compassion. 

About Machele:
Machele Galloway, a certified life coach, former hot mess, and lover of all things self-development. Machele coaches on many aspects of life and business, focusing on gaining a deep understanding of who you are—your challenges, strengths, and goals. She guides you to become the version of yourself that creates a life you are obsessed with living. 

Rather than telling you how to live, Machele helps you discover those answers within yourself and teaches you the tools to implement meaningful changes that actually stick.

Evidence of her ability to transform lives is reflected in her 5-star rating on Google, where clients rave about her ability to provide clarity, make personal growth fun and approachable, and deliver real, lasting results. Her approach is super fun, unique, and unlike anything else on the market.

With over 20 years of experience studying human behavior, 4,000+ hours coaching women, and 5 years running a full time coaching practice, Machele keeps things simple, effective, and, most importantly, enjoyable. As a client, you benefit from her wealth of knowledge and dedication to continuous learning. She’s all about making growth accessible and impactful—while keeping it fun.

If you’re curious about working with her, you can book a Zoom consultation HERE, and no worries, this isn’t a high-pressure sales session, this is all about you gaining a new perspective about your circumstances and even if you don’t end up working together, you’ll leave that call with a few actionable insights that you can implement right away. If not now, when?

Connect With Machele:
New Group Coaching Program
Free Consult
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @lifecoach_machele
TikTok: @lifecoach_machele

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 – Machele’s Journey Into Life Coaching
6:37 – When You’re Hard on Yourself
8:18 – Understanding Imposter Syndrome
13:16 – Are Our Thoughts Actually True?
18:00 – Advice for Jobs Our Of The Op
23:10 – People Pleasing & Beating Yourself Up
27:04 – Tips for Overcoming People Pleasing
30:42 – How To Stop Beating Yourself Up
33:22 – Machele’s Programs

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Ever wondered how dental clinicians can expand their careers into aesthetics? On this episode, Katie takes me behind the scenes of her journey into neuromodulators, covering both the cosmetic and therapeutic applications.

We discuss what makes dental professionals a great fit for this field, the steps to certification, and why lip fillers hold a special place in Katie’s practice.

Tune in to discover the exciting potential of this career path!

About Katie:
Katie Barrer is a Registered Dental Hygienist and certified esthetic injector. She elevates her traditional hygiene skills by integrating neuromodulators and dermal filler into her practice, viewing them as essential components to enhance patients' self-assurance and improve their overall dental health and function. She is a faculty member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics and looks forward to contributing to the evolution of dental hygiene.

To Connect With Katie:
Instagram: @therdhinjector
Email: [email protected]

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Meet Katie
4:55 - Katie's Journey into Neuromodulators
9:10 - Understanding Neuromodulators & Their Applications
14:55 - Cosmetic & Therapeutic Benefits
18:43 - Why Dental Clinicians Are the Perfect Fit
25:38 - Katie's Daily Schedule
26:58 - The Potential to Increase Income
28:05 - Getting Certified
29:28 - Why Lip Filler is Her Favorite Procedure
31:10 - Being an Educator
32:53 - What to Expect From Botox
39:30 - Connect With Katie

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Rafael, a dental hygienist who has navigated non-traditional roles in dental hygiene, from working in DSOs to coaching other hygienists. Rafael shares his journey, how his role as a hygiene coach makes an impact, and the challenges and opportunities he has faced as a male in the industry.

If you're curious about non-traditional hygiene roles or what it's like to be a male in a female-dominated industry, don't miss this episode!

About Rafael:
Rafael has over 32 years of experience in the dental field. He began his career in both hospital settings and private practice, and for the past 21 years, he has worked with dental group practices. During this time, he has played a key role in developing and implementing the organization's dental hygiene standards of care.

These standards encompass periodontal therapy, effective communication, efficient hygiene scheduling, enhanced patient care, and the development of dental hygiene teams.

Rafael is deeply committed to supporting the growth of the hygiene program, advancing individual hygienists' skills, and elevating the value of the profession. His coaching and training have guided hundreds of practices to achieve their goals, including improvements in leadership, teamwork, organizational systems, patient care, service quality, verbal skills, and overall patient outcomes.

Rafael is also the founder of Mr. RDH, a platform created to connect male hygienists globally, allowing them to network, discuss, and influence issues that affect men in the dental hygiene profession. The platform highlights the contributions of male hygienists in both clinical and administrative roles, showcasing their impact on the field.

To Connect With Rafael:
Mr. RDH Facebook Group
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 781-606-2130

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - How Rafael Worked in Non-Traditional Settings
5:40 - His Role at a DSO
8:25 - What is a Hygiene Coach?
15:15 - Working For Private Practice vs. DSO's
18:40 - Being a Male Hygienist
22:48 - Pros & Cons of Being a Male Hygienist
26:22 - Creating His Community for Male Hygienists
30:32 - His Advice for Hygienists
31:57 - How to Reach Rafael

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In this episode, I sit down with Susan to discuss her personal injury journey and the crucial role disability insurance plays in protecting one's financial future.

We dive into key topics such as understanding disability insurance, the importance of policy portability, taxable vs non-taxable policies, and why getting coverage early can make all the difference.

Whether you're considering insurance or already have policies in place, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate your options and secure your income.

About Susan:
Susan Cotten, BS, RDH, OMT, is dentistry’s oral cancer coach! She is the founder and CEO of Oral Cancer Consulting and developed The Cotten Method, an oral cancer screening method and dental oral cancer office system. In addition to speaking, Susan holds hands-on oral cancer screening workshops for dental professionals who want to have more confidence in a comprehensive screening, reduce the risk of liability, and increase early detection.

In her career, Susan has performed over 60 thousand oral cancer screenings. She is the Dental Lead for the Alliance for HPV Free Colorado, an instructor for National Network for Healthcare Hygienists, an RDH Advisory Board member at The Oral Cancer Foundation, and director with Dental Codeology Consortium.

Susan is a 2018 recipient of the Sunstar RDH Award of Distinction, recipient of the Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association Ethyl Covington Award and Outstanding Contribution Award. Susan founded MAD (Make A Difference) for Healthy Smiles as a 2010-2011 member of Donny Osmond’s Make a Difference program and received Volunteer of the Year from the Oral Cancer Foundation in 2011.

On a personal note, Susan loves walking the beaches of Hawaii, is a former country dance competitor, and loves watching college football.

To Connect With Susan:
Facebook:@SusanCottenRDH
LinkedIn: @SusanCotten
Instagram: @scottenrdh
Website
Email: [email protected]

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and Susan's Expertise
3:12 - Susan's Injury
12:01 - What is Disability Insurance?
13:19 - When You Have Multiple Policies
15:44 - Policy Portability
18:04 - Taxable vs Non-Taxable
19:01 - Most Important Things to Check!
24:54 - The Importance of Getting It Early
28:19 - Waiting Until After an Injury
29:21 - What's a Rider?
35:06 - Short-Term vs Long-Term Policies
39:17 - Wrap-Up & How to Reach Susan

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In this episode, I sit down with Anne, a brain health expert and dental hygienist, to explore the essential topics surrounding cognitive well-being.

We break down the differences between Alzheimer’s, dementia, and general cognitive decline, dive into the risk factors contributing to these conditions, and share practical ways to protect brain health.

From reducing inflammation to tips for talking to patients about cognitive health, and the critical role of exercise, sleep, and mental health in preserving cognition, this episode offers valuable insights for everyone.

Whether you’re a healthcare professional or someone curious about optimizing brain health, tune in for expert advice and surprising facts.

About Anne:

Anne has been a clinical dental hygienist for 35 years, is a speaker, writer, and consultant. She created Oral Systemic Seminars in 2017 and now devotes much of her time, focus and study primarily to dementia prevention.

She is a preceptor for the Bale/Doneen method, a Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Longevity Specialist with the Alzheimer’s Research and Prevention Foundation, where she has also developed curriculum. Anne is a Fellow with The American Academy of Oral Systemic Health and on their 2024 advisory board. Anne also serves on Cloud Dentistry’s Empowering Women in Dentistry board and has a column for RDH magazine focusing on oral systemic health where she is also on their 2024 editorial advisory board.

In 2025 she will be joining O’Hehir University editorial advisory board for their International Journal of Oral Health Behavior Change Research. Anne is a 2024 recipient of Sunstar’s Award of Distinction and in 2021 Anne published her manuscript Alzheimer’s Disease and Oral-Systemic Health Bidirectional Care Integration Improving Outcomes for Frontiers. She was included in an International Consortium of a diverse network of brain researchers, clinicians and institutions who support Alzheimer’s prevention.

Her consulting has brought her to Weill Cornell Medical Center’s Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic, Florida Atlantic College Center for Brain Health, the Atria Institute and Florida Institute Neurodegeneration Diseases under the direction of Dr. Richard Isaacson.

 To connect with Anne:

Website https://www.anneorice.com/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/anneorice/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anneorice

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Anne's Focus on Brain Health
6:53 - Differences Between Alzheimers, Dementia, & Cognitive Decline
9:33 - Prevelance of Brain Health Issues & Cognitive Decline
12:52 - Preventing Cognitive Decline: Reducing Inflammation
17:04 - Tips for Talking to Patients
19:38 - What Contributes to Increased Dementia Risk?
22:26 - Walking, Zone 2 Cardio, & HIIT
23:32 - Exercise & Mental Health
24:22 - Why Sleep is Crucial for Mental Health
28:32 - Tips for Good Sleep
29:15 - Surprising Fact About Teenagers, Sleep, & Mental Health
33:07 - Get in Touch With Anne

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In this special episode of Straight Up with Steph, I sit down with my former boss and friend, Dr. Brett Kessler, the American Dental Association's President-Elect.

We dive into his goals for his presidency, with a focus on wellness for both patients and dental professionals.

Dr. Kessler opens up about his personal journey with substance use disorder (SUD), shedding light on the unique challenges faced by dental clinicians.  As someone who has also begun to share my own story, this conversation is especially close to my heart. 

From dental benefit reform to the tension between dentists and hygienists, we cover a wide range of critical topics shaping the future of dentistry. Together, we break down the stigma surrounding addiction, discuss why dental professionals are particularly at risk, and share tips for finding balance and prioritizing wellness in every aspect of life.

About Dr Kessler:

Brett Kessler, DDS is currently serving as the president-elect of the ADA.
Brett Kessler, DDS has been practicing esthetic, functional and reconstructive dentistry since 1995. He has been published in multiple national and local periodicals and news outlets on various subjects with respect to cosmetic dentistry and well-being issues. In 2015, Dr. Kessler was featured by the Denver Post as the only dentist in Colorado with its inaugural “Strength in Health” award. He has been recognized by his peers as a “Top Dentist” in 5280 (fifty-two-eighty) Magazine every year since its inception in 2005.

Dr. Kessler is a past president of the Colorado Dental Association. He also serves as the chairman of the well-being Committee for the State of Colorado and is a consultant for the American Dental Association, serving for several years on the Dental Well Being Advisory Committee as well as the Council on Dental Benefits. Brett currently serves as the Trustee form the 14 th ADA District as its representative to the ADA’s Board of Trustees. As a Trustee, he is Chair of the ADA’s Science and Research Institute, Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee as well as the Chair of the ADA’s Audit Committee.

He is a Fellow in the American College of Dentists, International College of Dentists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy.

Brett keeps in shape by both coaching and participating in various endurance races across the United States including the Ironman World Championships in Kona, HI.

Brett and his (orthodontist) wife Gina have four children: Abbey, Max, Sydney and
Riley.

To connect with Dr. Brett Kessler:

Phone: 720-989-7960
Email: [email protected], [email protected]

To watch on YouTube, click here

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction & Background
2:03 - Goals for the ADA Presidency Around Wellness and Dental Benefits
7:19 - The Importance of Dental Benefit Reform
9:34 - Owning a Fee For Service Practice
13:58 - Tension Between Dentists & Hygienists
23:12 - Dr Kessler's Personal Experience with Substance Use Disorder
36:51 - Breaking Misconceptions About Addiction/SUD
43:09 - Why Dental Clinicians Are At Risk For SUD
49:08 - How To Find Help
51:42 - Dr Kessler's Healthy Habits & Tips for Balance
1:00 - How To Reach Dr Brett

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In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with a fellow dental hygienist and entrepreneur Rachel Wall, who has built her own company dedicated to elevating hygiene teams and systems in dental practices.

We dive into the importance of understanding the business side of dentistry, resolving the rising tension between practice owners and hygienists over wage increases, and how implementing new systems can be the solution both sides need.

We also discuss the growing trend of assisted hygiene and the potential for dental assistants to be trained in scaling, along with how hygienists can stay curious, embrace change, and overcome resistance when introducing new protocols.

As an international speaker, coach and owner of Inspired Hygiene, Rachel
has guided thousands of dental professionals to elevate their hygiene
services and systems while driving profits to the bottom line and developing
empowered, engaged hygienists.

Rachel draws from 30 years of experience as a hygiene profitability coach and clinical hygienist to deliver to-the-point interactive workshops and coaching programs.

She is a past recipient of the Dental Excellence Award from DrBicuspid.com for “Most Effective Dental Hygienist Educator” and has been named one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry by Dental Products Report.

Her book “Return on Hygiene” has been called the Hygiene Benchmark Bible and used by dentists all over North America to uncover the true potential of their hygiene teams.

To watch on YouTube, click here

To connect with Rachel:

Website
Instagram
Facebook
Email

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction 
2:18 - The Importance of Business Metrics & Hygiene Wages 
5:24 - Increased Hygiene Wages Drives Conflict 
8:10 - How Hygienists Can Be Part of the Solution 
11:22 - Changing the Way We Think About Perio 
16:29 - How to Fit It All In 
19:13 - Starting New Systems 
24:20 - Assisted Hygiene and Training Programs 
29:53 - Training Assistants as Hygienists? 
34:24 - How Hygienists Can Be Open to Change 
36:16 - How to Overcome Resistance 
42:54 - How to Connect with Rachel 

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