511 Is Clinical Excellence in Dentistry Transferable? with Dr. Chris Salierno!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Release Date: 10/29/2025
526 Pediatric Medical Emergencies & Anesthesia: Prepared, Not Panicked
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, hosts Jessica Atkinson and David Torres sit down with Brittnee Thibault and Lindsay Richmond—two hygienists who graduated with no pediatric local anesthetic practice in school and went on to become confident clinicians providing local anesthesia for children. Brittnee and Lindsay share how they developed pediatric anesthesia skills after graduation, building confidence through preparation, mentorship, and real-world experience. They discuss behavior management, anesthesia techniques, and parent-provider communication—highlighting how...
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525 Choosing Pediatrics: Training, Practice, and the Art of Caring for Kids
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Johnson, a dedicated pediatric dentist (pedodontist), to explore what makes pediatric dentistry truly unique—and why it’s about so much more than just teeth. From mastering parent communication to handling unexpected holiday emergencies, Dr. Johnson shares real-world insights from the front lines of pediatric care. 🦷 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Dr. Johnson Became a Pedodontist Dr. Johnson shares the personal and professional journey that led him to specialize in pediatric dentistry, and what continues to inspire his passion...
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524 Why Sharpening Matters: Instrument Care with Christine Jeffs
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Christine Jeffs, co-founder of Acuti Sharpening, to talk about why sharpening isn’t optional—it’s essential. Christine shares how she got started in the sharpening business and how Acuti Sharpening came to life alongside co-founder Melia Lewis, RDH. We unpack the often-overlooked role instrument sharpness plays in ergonomics, efficiency, patient comfort, and long-term career longevity. This conversation goes beyond the what and into the why. Christine explains how sharpening directly impacts clinical outcomes and why making it a consistent...
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523 From Dental Hygiene to Glam: The Story Behind Glam Studio
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we introduce The Pros at Glam Studio and the passion behind their work. As licensed dental hygienists with decades of experience, they share how they combine dental hygiene and aesthetics to help clients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles. We talk about their approach to safe, personalized care, their expansion into hygienic piercing services, and why client comfort, education, and confidence are at the heart of everything they do. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Glam Studio blends dental hygiene and aesthetics The importance of safety, certification, and client care Why...
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522 The Co-Host Compatibility Test
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we welcome our new co-host, Jessica and David with a fun, question-based game to get to know each other on (and off) the mic. Instead of a formal intro, we dive into stories, laughs, and a few unexpected answers. We talk about how this co-hosting partnership came together, what excites us about this new chapter, and why having fun is at the heart of great conversations. What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Jessica & David joined the podcast A get-to-know-you game with surprising moments What’s ahead for the podcast? Resources: Jessica's Email - ,
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521 From Dental Chair to Design Dreams: Ashley Kear on Building an Etsy Shop
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we chat with Ashley Kear about starting her Etsy shop and what happens when you stop trying to niche yourself into a box—and instead combine everything you love. Ashley shares how her journey began not just with creativity and curiosity, but with encouragement from friends who saw her talent and pushed her to go for it. We explore letting ideas evolve, trusting your instincts, and allowing fun to be part of the process. Sometimes the magic comes from experimenting, playing, and building something that feels like you. What You’ll Hear in This...
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520 More Than a Side Gig, Evolving Your Career with Shelley Brown!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Shelley Brown to talk about what happens when creativity, clinical care, and advocacy collide. Shelley shares the story behind her “side gig,” Homebound Smiles, and how a simple idea grew into meaningful work serving patients who often fall through the cracks of traditional care models. We explore what it really takes to build a full professional life—without burning out or losing your spark. This conversation goes beyond business. Shelley opens up about advocacy in dental hygiene, recognizing unmet needs, and staying creatively energized....
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519 And The New Co-Hosts Are...
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
The end of an era as Andrew hangs up the mic as host of A Tale of Two Hygienists after more than 10 years. But this isn't a sad day, it's a day to celebrate as we welcome in the two new co-hosts for 2026.. but you have to listen to find out who it is!
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Spice/K2: A Pharmacists Perspective with Tom Viola
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Spice/K2 is incredibly problematic. Not only is it unhealthy, it's also inconsistent and regularly laced with unknown additives and other drugs. Listen to Tom Viola as he explains the main concerns with this recreational drug! Resources: Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing , visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified
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518 Being Thin Does NOT Equal Health with Machell Hoover, RDH
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
We go through different phases of our life and sometimes we are very healthy and sometimes we aren't. Unfortunately, we humans judge books by covers - we think thin is health and heavy is not. In this episode with Machell Hoover she reminds us of what health really looks like, what her journey has been, and how to partner with the right providers to get exactly what your body needs to be healthy. Resources:
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Networking & Power Networking:
Dr. Chris Salierno returns for an in-depth conversation on building meaningful professional relationships in dentistry. He offers his insights into "power networking," stressing the importance of showing up, saying yes to opportunities, and making deposits before making withdrawals. Learn how he identifies red flags in networking and why intentional relationship-building leads to lasting success. -
Clinical Excellence: Andrew and Dr. Salierno discuss the idea that the path to clinical excellence is not always linear. The conversation encourages grabbing knowledge from various sources—networking, colleagues, and even dental influencers—to continually improve patient care. Dr. Salierno talks about taking inspiration from both clinical work and soft skills, emphasizing the ongoing journey toward greatness in dentistry and hygiene.
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Hiring and Team Values: Dr. Salierno shares his perspective as Chief Dental Officer at Tend and his passion for hiring people who bring personality and technical skill. He discusses why hospitality and a clear mission matter, focusing on how creating a strong employee value proposition attracts the right kind of team members and boosts retention, especially in a competitive dental employment market.
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Social Media & Professional Comparison: The dangers of social media—especially comparing yourself to peers who only showcase their highlight reels—is a key theme in this episode. Dr. Salierno provides thoughtful advice on maintaining a healthy outlook and keeping professional standards high, both online and offline.
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Transitions & Career Flexibility: The episode touches on career pivots in dentistry and highlights Dr. Salierno’s observations on professionals who successfully transition into various roles—be it technology, teaching, or administration. He shares that the dental field offers incredible flexibility for those willing to say yes, learn, and embrace new challenges.
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Where to Find More from Dr. Salierno: Dr. Salierno’s Substack, “Leaving Healthcare,” is packed with posts for anyone interested in non-clinical career options or broadening their horizons in dentistry. You can find him on Instagram as @thecuriousdentist for more content, updates on speaking engagements, and thoughtful discussions.
Connect:
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Dr. Chris Salierno Substack: Leaving Healthcare
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Instagram: @thecuriousdentist
Final Notes: Thanks to Dr. Salierno for sharing his time and wisdom! Make sure to subscribe, check the show notes for resources, and sign up for Andrew’s newsletter for more content.