Newly Erupted

Dr. Anthea Mazzawi joins host Dr. Joel Berg to share her story as a dual pediatric dentist and orthodontist, a practice-owner and a mother. She delves into how the multifaceted roles have shaped her as a professional and leader, especially the opportunities to foster a network of peer experts. Dr. Mazzawi emphasizes the importance of a willingness to learn and   Guest Bio:  Dr. Anthea Mazzawi is a board-certified pediatric dentist who has practiced dentistry for almost 20 years. Raised along the gulf coast of Florida, she earned a B.S. degree in Developmental Biology from Florida State University and a D.M.D. degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. She then completed a residency in pediatric dentistry at the Medical University of South Carolina. She is currently in private practice with her husband, Dr. Miles Mazzawi, who is also a pediatric dentist. Their practice, Cherokee Children’s Dentistry, has been serving the needs of children in the greater Atlanta area since 2007. Mazzawi is passionate about working with children and serving as an advocate for all child related issues.  Mazzawi has been heavily involved with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and organized dentistry throughout her career. She served as the president of The College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry in 2018 and has also been a part of several committees and councils for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Currently, she is the chairman of the Scientific Program Committee for the Annual Session. She also serves chairman of the Greater Atlanta Dental Foundation Gala Committee (an event that raises funds to meet the needs of several free/reduced fee clinics in Atlanta), and the secretary for the GA Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.  Mazzawi is excited to serve as a trustee on the board of trustees for the AAPD. She looks forward to working with her colleagues, specifically the federal service membership, to promote for our profession and advance optimal oral health for all children. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recorded on-site at AAPD 2025 in Denver, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by dental entrepreneur Dr. Chris Lugo for a chat on the business side of dental office management. Dr. Lugo discusses his experiences as a multi-practice owner who also mentors residents and associates in the financial background important in business. This is a must-listen if you’re considering owning your own practice. Guest Bio:  Dr. Christopher Lugo brings over 20 years of experience as a pediatric dentist, healthcare leader, and strategic business consultant. As CEO of Dynamic Dental Management and owner of Puget Sound Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Lugo has built a highly successful network of pediatric dental practices across the Pacific Northwest. Known for his expertise in practice operations, revenue growth, and team development, he has become a sought-after consultant for practices looking to scale efficiently while delivering outstanding patient care. A graduate of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Lugo also holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, combining clinical knowledge with business acumen to navigate the complexities of modern dental practice management. His unique perspective has made him a respected voice in the industry, including his role as an expert defense witness and his current position as a Clinical Professor at UT Houston. Dr. Lugo's work exemplifies a commitment to advancing pediatric dentistry and supporting the next generation of dental professionals. Whether in the classroom, chairside, or boardroom, he remains dedicated to elevating standards in patient care and practice management. Currently based in Houston, Texas, he continues influencing the field through his leadership, innovation, and commitment to excellence. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Kathleen Schultz to talk about her specialty, Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology and how she translates her experience having fun with learning while a student in her own work with residents. Dr. Schultz, a lecturer for the AAPD Oral Comprehensive Exam review courses, speaks to the importance of having a strong peer network so you never feel like you’re “going it alone” when tough cases come up. Guest Bio: Dr. Schultz received her dental degree from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine. She completed a residency in oral and maxillofacial pathology at Long Island Jewish Medical Center and a residency in pediatric dental medicine at Cohen Children’s Medical Center where she served as chief resident in both specialties. She is a Fellow and a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology as well as a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She is currently a full time attending in oral and maxillofacial pathology and pediatric dentistry at Northwell Health. In addition to managing clinical practices in pediatric dentistry and pediatric oral pathology, she also teaches residents in both disciplines and participates in the surgical pathology service. She is a participant of the Hagedorn Cleft Palate and Craniofacial Team at Northwell Health and has a personal interest in the dental management and prosthodontic rehabilitation of infants and children with cleft lip and palate. Her interest is on clinical and radiographic presentations of common and uncommon oral pathology in pediatric patients, notably those with syndromes and complex medical conditions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Newly Erupted, host Dr. Joel Berg talks about the keys to avoiding burnout with Dr. Trudy-Ann Frazer. Dr. Frazer shares her three-step approach to mitigating burnout, particularly for female practitioners and what steps to take once you realize burnout has taken hold – either in yourself or your team. Guest Bio: Dr. Trudy-Ann Frazer has experience working exclusively with children. It is her goal to promote good oral habits to children and parents as a part of preserving beautiful, healthy smiles for a lifetime. She earned her DDS from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tennessee as the Valedictorian, then completed her certificate in Pediatric Dentistry residency from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine/ Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, New York. She is a proud graduate of Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama where she received her Bachelor of Science in Biology. Dr. Frazer was born in Negril, Jamaica and grew up in Stone Mountain, Georgia. She has dedicated much of her professional career to educating and serving children and participated in numerous outreach activities, which include several mission trips to offer dental services to children in Jamaica. She is also involved in various organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, and National Dental Association, as well as a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She enjoys swimming, basketball, camping, traveling and spending quality time with her family and friends.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Joel Berg is joined by cariology expert Dr. Brian Novy for a discussion on all there’s still to learn about dental caries. Dr. Novy delves into the importance for practitioners to understand the science of cariology, particularly when working with patients and families that may be opposed to traditional treatments, like fluoride. He also shares his personal path in evidence-based dentistry research and how this work has improved his approach to educating the future generation of dentists. Guest Bio: Often described as “The tenth dentist,” Dr. Brian B. Nový has faculty appointments at Virginia Commonwealth University and Harvard School of Dental Medicine. He served on the American Dental Association Council of Scientific Affairs from 2010-2014, and in 2016 was appointed the consumer representative to the United States Food & Drug Administration Dental Products Panel. His papers are published in various journals including the Journal of the American Dental Association, the Journal of Dental Research, the Journal of Evidence Based Dentistry, Dentistry Today, Inside Dentistry, Dental Economics, Compendium, the National Academies of Medicine, and the International Journal of Equity in HealthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of little teeth, BIG Smiles, host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Brittaney Hill, the 2024 recipient of the AAPD Jerome B. Miller “For the Kids” Award. As an up-and-coming practitioner, Dr. Hill shares her experience as a mentee and the impact her mentors had on her career trajectory into pediatric dentistry and the public health sphere. She also delves into how those experiences have impacted her relationship with students as the Pediatric Dentistry Post-Graduate Residency Program Director at UIC. Guest Bio: Dr. Brittaney Hill earned her DDS from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. She then completed a Pediatric Dentistry Residency at the University of Illinois Chicago, where she earned her Certificate in Pediatric Dentistry, an MS in Oral Sciences, and an MPH in Health Policy and Administration. Upon completion of her residency program, Dr. Hill immediately transitioned into full-time faculty at UIC and now serves as Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program Director. Dr. Hill is involved in service and leadership in numerous organizations including the Chicago Dental Society, American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Suzie Bergman joins host Dr. Joel Berg for a discussion on her Ted Talk, “Why is healthcare disjointed” and why evidence-based treatment is imperative for unique issues like temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Dr. Bergman shares her perspective as a dentist who also suffers with TMD and what she learned from various treatments prescribed under a “one size fits all” approach. Guest Bio: Dr. Suzie Bergman is a dentist with experience spanning clinical care, post-doctoral education, research, advocacy, and infrastructure for patients suffering from temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Dr. Suzie, as she is commonly called, is an Adjunct Associate Professor at Pacific Northwest University School of Dental Medicine. She is President Elect of the American Association of Women Dentists and a mentor for students through their Bridge to Brilliance program. She also serves as a mentor with Diversity in Dentistry. Dr. Suzie is a Selection Chair and Fellow of the TMJ Foundation’s online fellowship program. She lectures internationally as an orthodontic instructor and a TMD expert. Currently, she is very active in her role as Director of Dental Education at Immersify EducationSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Lauren Yap joins host Dr. Joel Berg to chat about the upcoming AAPD Pediatric Oral Health Advocacy Conference (POHAC) in Washington, DC. Each year, hundreds of early career pediatric dentists visit the nation’s capital to advocate for the issues impacting the profession and optimal oral health of all children with congressional staff. Dr. Yap shares her experiences as a previous POHAC attendee, as well as how she encourages her peers to seize any opportunity to be a strong voice for themselves and their patients, whether it be in the operatory to the state or national level. Guest Bio: Lauren C. Yap, DMD, MPH, is a Clinical Associate Professor in the Division of Pediatric Dentistry and serves as the Assistant Program Director for the Postdoctoral Pediatric Dental Residency Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She earned her dual degree in Dentistry (DMD) and Public Health (MPH) from the Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry and College of Public Health in 2019 and subsequently completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Certificate in Hawaii, followed by a Pediatric Dentistry Certificate at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. Board-certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Yap is an active leader in the field, currently serving as the Pennsylvania Public Policy Advocate for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and as a member of the Committee on Scientific Affairs. She is also a recent graduate of the ADA Institute for Diversity in Leadership (2024) and proudly serves as the Third District Representative for the American Dental Political Action Committee (ADPAC). Before pursuing her dental education, Dr. Yap worked as an elementary school math teacher and served as a research assistant at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) within the Center for Asian Health.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by fellow Iowan and pediatric dentist Dr. Casey Goetz to discuss the importance of access to care for children in rural areas and the benefits to early career practitioners for setting up practices in these areas. Dr. Goetz shares his experience as a private practice pediatric dentist in rural Missouri serving a majority of patients with Medicaid and how he uses his own experiences to encourage peers and new graduates to consider a similar path. Guest Bio: Casey Goetz is a pediatric dentist and practice owner in rural Missouri. After graduating residency from the University of Iowa in 2019, he started his practice from scratch and grew it to a five chair, seven-figure collection practice in just the first year… all while serving a heavy population of kids with Medicaid. He’s an advocate for rural pediatric dentistry, startups, and finding ways to serve the kids from challenging backgrounds in his communities while still running a profitable practice. He created an online lecture series “little smiles practice mastery” that provides a step-by-step guide teaching students how to start a pediatric dental office from scratch.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Dr. Joel Berg is once again joined by Dr. Clarice Law, this time to discuss her recent move after two decades at one institution and her advice for others determining what their next steps may be. Dr. Law shares the multiple ways her career has evolved over the past three decades. Emphasizing all the opportunities the shift to academia has provided, she discusses the appeal of formally studying new tools and information impacting direct patient care and building up the next generation of pediatric dentists as a mentor. For those clinicians considering a shift to academia – or simply weighing if it may be for you – this is a great listen. Guest Bio: Dr. Clarice Law, DMD, MS is an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Community Oral Health at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Dr Law received her DMD from Harvard School of Dental Medicine in 1995. She completed specialty training in Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics in 1998 at UCLA School of Dentistry and the MS in Oral Biology in 2000. She is Board Certified in both specialties. Dr Law was full-time faculty at UCLA School of Dentistry, teaching both disciplines to dental students and residents, until her transition to UTHSC in 2022. Dr Law has enjoyed involvement in both specialty communities, recently completing a two-year term of service on the Board of Directors of the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists. Within the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, she has served on the Inservice Exam Committee, the QE Prep Board Review Course, and the Behavior Guidance Clinical Practice Workgroup. Dr Law is married to filmmaker Ian Eyre and has two children, a 17-year-old son and a 14-year-old daughter, who have influenced both her orthodontic and behavior guidance practices immensely.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newly Erupted host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Marilyn Sandor for a discussion on the bright future for virtual care in dentistry – or “teledentistry.” With both practitioners and patients looking for convenience and efficiency, virtual care can set a practice apart. The conversation emphasizes the vital role communication plays in all patient care, but particularly when making the shift to more online visits. Dr. Sandor also shares how virtual care can resolve some of the barriers impacting access to care, like distance or mobility. Guest Bio: Dr. Marilyn Sandor is a pediatric dentist, entrepreneur, and innovator with a passion for transforming the patient experience in pediatric dentistry. As the founder of Naples Pediatric Dentistry, a top-rated practice in Naples, Fla., she has built a reputation for blending compassionate care with advanced technology. Dr. Sandor’s innovations include the Zooby® prophy angle, a globally successful tool in pediatric dentistry, and GoodCheckup®, a mobile platform that connects patients with their pediatric dentists in minutes, providing access to care, anywhere™️. GoodCheckup was named to the Polsky10’s 'Start-Ups to Watch' list. A dedicated leader in her field, Dr. Sandor is also an active member of several professional organizations and was named to Doctor-To-Doctor World’s Top 100 Class of 2024 for the USA. She is committed to inspiring change and improving pediatric dental health on a global scale.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Harlyn Susarla joins Newly Erupted and host Dr. Joel Berg to discuss the importance of embracing leadership opportunities, along with strategics risks, for early career pediatric dentists to effect positive change. She shares her firsthand experiences with exiting her comfort zone and how those situations built up her confidence in her own expertise and ability to ask the right questions – including one that saved a child’s life. Guest Bio: A board-certified pediatric dentist, Dr. Harlyn K. Susarla is committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting high quality, equitable healthcare for every child. Dr. Susarla is currently part of a multi-disciplinary team at Seattle Children’s Hospital, where her clinical practice focuses primarily on children with complex medical conditions, developmental or behavioral differences, as well as those requiring emergency care. Dr. Susarla is also an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Washington School of Dentistry. She previously worked in a private practice environment, and at the Seattle Children’s Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic, which provides medical, dental, behavioral health and nutrition services to children, regardless of a family’s ability to pay. Dr. Susarla completed her undergraduate education at Wellesley College. She then completed a Master of Public Health degree at Boston University, dental degree at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine, and pediatric dental residency at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the Pierre Fauchard Academy, and the American College of Dentists. Dr. Susarla has had the privilege of being an advocate for pediatric dentistry and public health at the local, regional, and national levels. She is Immediate Past President of the Seattle-King County Dental Society and serves on the Washington State Dental Association’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Workgroup and Nominations Committee. A past president of the Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Susarla is President-Elect of the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry, a Trustee of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Foundation, Vice President of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, Chair of the AAPD Committee on Early Career Pediatric Dentists, the Western Representative for the AAPD Council on Scientific Affairs, and a consultant on the AAPD Consumer Review Committee. Dr. Susarla is also involved in her local community. She is a member of the Junior League of Seattle and serves on the board of her children’s school.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of Newly Erupted, host Dr Joel Berg is joined by Ellie Wetzel to discuss the integration of therapy animals into dental practices, highlighting the legal considerations and benefits of establishing in-office therapy animal programs. Wetzel emphasizes the importance of choosing the right animal, understanding the differences between service and emotional support animals, and the role of the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals in supporting professionals interested in bringing this service into their practices.Guest Bio:Ellie Wetzel and her dog Winnie serve as a therapy animal team, visiting with clients ranging from families at a children’s hospital, teenagers at a juvenile detention center, children in foster care, and students at colleges. In her professional life, Wetzel is an attorney. Through her involvement as avolunteer therapy animal handler with Pet Partners, she developed an interest in animalaccommodation law. She has led continuing education sessions for attorneys on legal issues related to service animals and emotional support animals, as well as presentations for professionals on incorporating therapy animals into their practice.Wetzel serves on the board for the Association of Animal-Assisted Intervention Professionals (AAAIP), an organization that focuses on empowering professionals to responsibly integrate the healing power of therapy animals into their practice. She currently lives in Toronto with her husband, Kevin, their cat, Cooper, and Winnie, a Great PyrenessSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newly Erupted host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Hani Eid for an insightful conversation on growing a private practice to fulfill community needs. Dr. Eid shares his journey from opening a four-chair private practice in Longview, Ore. to owning five practices in neighboring communicates in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Eid discusses the impact of expansion on access to care for children in an area with high demand and need for pediatric dentists, as well as tools he has utilized to successfully add new providers and retain staff. Guest Bio: Dr. Hani Eid is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). Dr Eid has a Master of Science degree and a certificate of Specialty in Pediatric Dentistry from Tufts University in Boston Mass. Dr. Eid is a Diplomate of the American Orthodontic Society (AOS), as well as a published author. Dr. Eid currently serves as Affiliate Assistant Professor at the University of Washington (UW). Before starting Happy Kids Dentistry & Orthodontics, he was an assistant professor at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU). He serves as a board examiner for the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), chairs the Consumer Review Committee of the AAPD, and serves as Assistant Treasurer for the AAPD Political Action Committee. Dr. Eid is a past president of the Washington State Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (WSAPD), and a board member for the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry (WSPD). In his community, Dr. Eid is a past president and active member of the Rotary Club of Longview and is a two-time Ironman triathlete.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Brianna Muñoz joins host Dr. Joel Berg for a discussion on her path into pediatric dentistry – her lifelong career goal – and the pivotal role an interest in public health played in developing her ethos. In this episode, Dr. Muñoz shares how merging many of her unique interests, including biology, chemistry, and dance, along with a commitment to interprofessional care shaped her as a communicator and advocate for children. She also discusses her experiences as an AAPD Harris Fellow and Board President of the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative, and how they allowed her opportunities to positively impact the optimal oral health of all kids. Guest Bio: Dr. Brianna Muñoz is a board-certified pediatric dentist practicing in Avon, Conn. She recently started her own business, Twinkle Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, and was recognized nationally by the ADA as a recipient of the 2024 10 Under 10 Award. Dr. Muñoz obtained her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in 2016 from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine at which time she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) National Dental Honor Society. Dr. Muñoz then completed a residency in pediatric dentistry at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center (CCMC) while concurrently attaining her Master of Public Health (MPH) degree along with a Certificate of Interdisciplinary Disability Studies. She received the 2018 AAPD Resident Recognition Award and was proud to complete the Samuel D. Harris Research and Policy Fellowship. As the AAPD Public Policy Advocate (PPA) for the state of Connecticut, Dr. Muñoz travels to Washington, DC each year where she lobbies at the federal level to strengthen oral health policy and trains residents on a wide array of legislative issues. Dr. Muñoz also serves as Board President of the Connecticut Oral Health Initiative (COHI), a nonprofit organization that promotes access, quality, and equity of oral healthcare at the state level. In honor of these achievements, she was presented with the 2020 COHI Oral Health Champion Award as well as the 2023 Connecticut State Dental Association (CSDA) Rising Star Award. Outside of work, Dr. Muñoz likes to dance, try new restaurants, and take part in Harry Potter marathons. On social media, you can find Dr. Muñoz teaching her staff the latest dance trends. She also enjoys cheering on Boston sports teams as an avid fan and former New England Patriots Cheerleader for the 2011 and 2021 seasons!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newly Erupted host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Dr. Martha Wells, Chief of Dentistry at St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital – and the first dentist on their faculty track. In this episode, Dr. Wells shares her day-to-day experience in a hospital faculty setting and the importance of connections she’s made, specifically with peers on a similar professional path and the nursing team at St. Jude’s. Drs. Well and Berg also examine the trend of convergence between medical and dental care in large-scale settings. Guest Bio: Dr. Martha Wells is the Chief of Dentistry at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and is the first dentist on their faculty track. She attended the Dental College of Georgia at Augusta University and received her Master of Science Degree and specialty Certificate of Pediatric Dentistry from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining St. Jude, she was Director of the Pediatric Dentistry Residency at UTHSC and was the first Heber Simmons Jr. Distinguished Professor of Pediatric Dentistry. She serves on the Board of Editors for Pediatric Dentistry, the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry’s Qualifying Examination Committee, and the AAPD’s Scientific Programming Committee. She has authored numerous articles and textbook chapters in the areas of dental materials and behavior guidance. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the wife of an endodontist and a mom of three.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newly Erupted host Dr. Joel Berg is joined by Karen Masters, a speech pathologist with almost 40 years of clinical experience related to orofacial myology to discuss orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMDs), treatment plans, and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Masters specifically delves into the importance of pediatric dentists and dental hygienists being familiar with OMDs and understanding ways to promote individualized care plans. Guest Bio: Karen Masters is a speech pathologist with almost 40 years of clinical experience. Karen attended Ithaca College where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Speech Pathology and then Emerson College where she completed her Master’s degree in Communication Disorders. Karen is also a Certified Orofacial Myologist through the IAOM and completed the requirements through NeoHealth Services to be awarded her QOM. Karen quickly realized that signs and symptoms of orofacial myofunctional disorders were seen in many of the patients being treated in her practice and as a result encouraged all the speech therapists working for her to pursue training and all have completed a 28-30 hour course in the assessment and treatment of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders. Karen's practice, Chatham Speech and Myo (www.chathamspeechandmyo.com) in Chatham, NJ is thrilled to collaborate with otolaryngologists, orthodontists, dentists, pediatric dentists, oral surgeons, occupational therapists and other speech pathologists to provide the best treatment sequence for the patients they see.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Cliff Hartmann, Chair of the AAPD Political Action Committee (PAC), joins host Dr. Joel Berg to discuss the mission of the AAPD PAC and the Academy’s legislative priorities. Dr. Hartmann also delves into PAC FAQs, offering a great primer for those who may not be familiar with how political action committees identify and support candidates, who can contribute, and why PACs are so important. Guest Bio: Dr. Cliff Hartmann is a graduate of Marquette University School of Dentistry where he also completed his pediatric dental training. Dr. Hartmann currently serves as Chair of the AAPD Political Action Committee. He is also a Past-Trustee of the Academy and served as President of the Wisconsin Dental Association in 2022.Dr. Cliff Hartmann, Chair of the AAPD Political Action Committee (PAC), joins host Dr. Joel Berg to discuss the mission of the AAPD PAC and the Academy’s legislative priorities. Dr. Hartmann also delves into PAC FAQs, offering a great primer for those who may not be familiar with how political action committees identify and support candidates, who can contribute, and why PACs are so important. Guest Bio: Dr. Cliff Hartmann is a graduate of Marquette University School of Dentistry where he also completed his pediatric dental training. Dr. Hartmann currently serves as Chair of the AAPD Political Action Committee. He is also a Past-Trustee of the Academy and served as President of the Wisconsin Dental Association in 2022.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Building a business doesn’t need to be scary. Dr. Mira Albert chats with host Dr. Joel Berg about entrepreneurship and being strong enough to face your fears. Hear Dr. Albert discuss what drives her as a businessowner, as well as how her choice to pursue an MBA positively impacted her confidence and lessened her fears. She delves into the importance of entrepreneurs identifying their sense of purpose and finding trusted advisors and peers.   Guest Bio:  Dr. Mira Albert founded Brush Pediatric Dentistry in Hinsdale, Illinois in 2011. Brush is a vibrant, growing practice scaling to its second location in the summer of 2024. She works alongside four pediatric dentists and a dynamic support team that together take great pride in providing a compassionate and fun dental experience to the children in their community.   Dr. Albert is a national spokesperson and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and serves as Trustee and Marketing Chair of The Foundation of the AAPD. Dr. Albert is also a Diplomate and member of the Examination Committee of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. She supports her community and many philanthropic and civic organizations both financially and as a volunteer. She also takes great pride in mentoring young women as they follow in her career footsteps.  Dr. Albert earned her MBA from The Northwestern Kellogg School of Management in 2022. Prior to that, she earned her bachelor's and dental degrees both from the University of Michigan. Dr. Albert attended the University of Illinois in Chicago where she earned her master's degree and diploma in pediatric dentistry. She maintains hospital privileges at The Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.   On a personal note, Dr. Albert is married to a general dentist and together they own two general practices in addition to Brush Pediatric Dentistry. She is a busy mom to two very active teenage boys and the family’s sweet dog. Dr. Albert completed the NYC marathon in 2018 and the Chicago marathon in 2019. She’s hung up her running shoes for now, but still enjoys water sports, downhill skiing, traveling with her family and cheering for The Wolverines and from the bleachers of her kids’ teams. Dr. Albert is intensely curious about dental practice integration, developing synergies and continuous improvement of processes within a dental practice in the pursuit of providing optimal pediatric oral healthcare. She hopes to continue growing her brand and meet like-minded pediatric dentists along the way who share her vision and might be interested in joining her team. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pediatric dentist Anna Simonis joins Newly Erupted to discuss how she has successfully woven together her personal interests with her professional work, fostering a sense of balance. She chats with host Dr. Joel Berg about the rewards and challenges of bringing together all facets of who she is as a person – a pediatric dentist, a business owner, a team leader, a spouse, a mom, a singer – and shares how you can utilize your own passions to be the best professional possible. Guest Bio: Anna Simonis, DDS, received her Doctorate in Dental Surgery from Columbia University School of Dental and Oral Surgery in 2002. Prior to her graduate studies, she completed her BA at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey, majoring in Psychology. During her education at Columbia, Anna led her peers as their class president for three years, and she delivered the Salutatorian speech at graduation. Continuing her education, Anna pursued a certificate of Specialty in Pediatric Dentistry at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, where she served as Chief Resident. Her private practice experience as a pediatric dentist began on Long Island and continued in Westchester County and then into Connecticut, where she planted her roots and built her practice, New Canaan Pediatric Dentistry, LLC. She is a proud and active member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry; American Dental Association; Connecticut State Dental Association; New Canaan Dental Society, which she currently serves as vice president; and American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. In her community, Anna currently serves on the boards for New Canaan Cares, The Daycare Center of New Canaan, and The New Canaan Chamber of Commerce, as well as volunteers her time with the New Canaan High School Soccer team (her son’s team) and at various school functions. Anna adores spending time with her husband, Dennis, their 16-year-old son, Niko, and, of course, her 5- year-old Goldendoodle, Barkley and most recent addition, Leo, a 4-month-old mini-whoodle. She is an avid reader of various genres and has received her certificate in Health, Wellness and Nutrition at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in order to expand and compliment her scope of services.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.