In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist podcast, Caitlin sits down with Brandi Hooker Evans, a dental hygienist and trailblazer redefining patient care in dentistry. Brandi shares her unique philosophy of moving away from a “herding cattle” approach to fostering exquisite, individualized care for each patient. With her Idaho roots and sunny personality, Brandi brings a fresh perspective on cultivating rewarding professional careers for dental professionals.

From actionable insights to inspiring stories, this conversation will empower you to enhance your patient care approach and create better days in your clinical practice. So, grab your boots and roll up your sleeves—this episode is packed with wisdom and positivity!

Brandi Hooker Evans is a dynamic dental hygienist, speaker, and advocate for personalized patient care. Hailing from Idaho, Brandi combines her small-town values with big ideas to revolutionize the way dental professionals approach patient interactions. With a deep passion for mentoring others, Brandi helps clinicians cultivate rewarding careers and create meaningful connections with their patients. Her vibrant personality and commitment to excellence make her a sought-after educator and thought leader in the dental community.

Connect with Brandi:

• Website: www.BrandiHookerEvans.com
• Email: stellaroutcomes@outlook.com
• @StellarOutcomes on FB and Instagram
• @BrandiHookerEvans on FB, Insta, and LinkedIn

Get Brandi's Book, Dentists, Hygienists, and Cows

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin Parsons shares her personal journey with chronic pain and the wellness strategies that have transformed her career and life. Chronic pain is a reality for so many dental professionals, yet it’s rarely talked about openly. In this episode, Caitlin dives into the most common pain issues in dentistry—neck and shoulder pain, lower back strain, and hand/wrist discomfort—and how these challenges can impact work and life.

Drawing from her experience as a chronic pain survivor and Certified Yoga Therapist, Caitlin offers actionable strategies to help you find relief and build a sustainable career. Topics include:

Ergonomics: Tips for optimizing posture, positioning, and workspace setup, plus must-have ergonomic tools like saddle stools, cordless handpieces, and ergonomic loupes.

At-Home Exercises: Yoga, stretching, pilates, and strength training to reduce tension and build resilience.

Stress Management & Lifestyle Changes: How nutrition, hydration, sleep, and finding joy can support your overall well-being.

Whether you’re dealing with discomfort now or looking to prevent chronic pain in the future, this episode will empower you with tools, insights, and hope. You’re not alone in this journey—and there are solutions to help you thrive.

Connect with Caitlin:

🎉 Ready to start your wellness journey? Grab your Free Chairside Guide featuring yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more,

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with Caitlin

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

• Website: www.thealignedhygienist.com

Additional Resources:

💡 Learn more about Caitlin’s Yoga Membership and access over 150 on-demand classes to reduce pain and stress: https://thealignedhygienist.com/yoga-membership/

📩 Interested in personalized 1:1 coaching? Reach out to Caitlin directly at Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com.

You deserve to live and work without pain—let’s take the first step together!

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin Parsons takes the mic solo to explore a topic that resonates deeply with dental professionals: mindfulness in dentistry. With her years of experience in clinical practice, Caitlin shares how mindfulness has transformed her approach to managing stress, improving focus, and staying present during patient care. In this episode, you’ll learn how incorporating small, intentional practices can make a big difference in your daily routine. Caitlin dives into:

🦷 The unique stressors dental professionals face, including patient anxiety, perfectionism, and physical demands.

🌿 Practical mindfulness techniques you can implement today, like chairside breathing, body scans, and micro-meditations.

✨ Tips for building sustainable mindfulness habits and using tools like mindfulness apps and yoga practices to support your journey.

You’ll also hear about Caitlin’s Yoga Membership, a budget-friendly on-demand resource with over 150 classes designed specifically for busy professionals, and how 1:1 coaching can provide personalized guidance to help you align your health, career, and life.

This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and thrive in your role as a dental professional. Take the first step toward a calmer, more intentional workday today!

Connect with Caitlin:

🎉 Ready to start your wellness journey? Grab your Free Chairside Guide featuring yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more.

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with Caitlin

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

• Website: www.thealignedhygienist.com

Additional Resources:

💡 Learn more about Caitlin’s Yoga Membership and start prioritizing your health today: https://thealignedhygienist.com/yoga-membership/

📩 Interested in personalized 1:1 coaching? Reach out to Caitlin directly at Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com.

Let’s align your passion with your well-being—because you deserve to thrive!

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin Parsons welcomes Kristen Evans, also known as “The pH RDH,” a speaker, writer, and educator in the dental field. Kristen shares her unique approach to dental hygiene that goes beyond the mouth, emphasizing the critical role of pH balance in oral and overall health. Listen as Kristen discusses her journey, her commitment to lifelong learning, and how she incorporates whole-body wellness into her patient care. Discover valuable insights into educating patients about hydration, saliva health, and using neutralizing products to combat acidity. This conversation will leave you inspired to elevate your practice through holistic, patient-centered care.

Kristin Evans, BS, RDH, known as “The pH RDH,” is a Boise-based dental hygienist with over 30 years of clinical experience. A graduate of Idaho State University, Kristin transitioned into professional education in 2019 and became an independent speaker in 2022. Passionate about the oral-systemic connection, she educates dental professionals on enhancing patient health outcomes through functional nutrition and pH balancing. Kristin is a published writer with articles in RDH Magazine and DentistryIQ.com. Her mission is to bridge the gap between mental, physical, and oral health through simple, impactful strategies. Outside of her career, Kristin is a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

Connect with Kristin:

• Email: kristinevansrdh@gmail.com
• LinkedIn
• Instagram

Additional Resources:

Susan Cotton’s Oral Cancer Screening "The Cotten Method" - https://oralcancerconsulting.com/

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, Caitlin Parsons welcomes Brittany Cox, a dental hygienist passionate about sustainability in the dental industry. Together, they dive into the intersection of preventive care and eco-conscious practices, exploring how dental professionals can make a positive impact on both patient health and the planet. Brittany shares actionable insights on reducing waste, choosing sustainable products, and rethinking patient care with prevention in mind. Tune in to discover how you can contribute to a more sustainable and health-focused dental practice.

About Brittany: Brittany Cox is a dedicated dental hygienist with a commitment to sustainable practices and prevention-focused care. With a background in public health and a passion for reducing the dental industry’s environmental impact, Brittany advocates for eco-friendly solutions that align with high-quality patient care. Her work aims to inspire dental professionals to adopt practices that benefit both patients and the planet, making her a sought-after voice on sustainability in dentistry.

Connect with Brittany on Instagram

Links and Resources:

•Sustainable Dentistry Resource Guide

•Eco-Friendly Dental Products List

•Brittany Cox’s Social Media

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode, I sit down with Erin Haley Hitz, President of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), to explore the critical challenges and opportunities facing dental hygienists today. Erin shares her journey from practicing clinician to leading the ADHA, offering valuable insights on how the profession can evolve to meet the needs of a changing dental hygiene landscape. From workforce well-being and advocacy to the importance of community support, Erin’s vision is one of empowerment and proactive change for dental hygienists nationwide. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the future of dental hygiene and how each professional can make a lasting impact.

About Erin: Erin Haley Hitz, RDH, is the current President of the American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), where she leads efforts to advance the profession and support dental hygienists across the country. With a clinical background and a passion for advocacy, Erin is dedicated to improving working conditions, promoting well-being, and empowering dental professionals. Her leadership within the ADHA reflects a commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and community-building, making her a strong advocate for the dental hygiene field.

Links or Resources Mentioned:

•American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA) Website: ADHA.org

•ADHA Membership Information: Learn more about becoming a member and the benefits at ADHA Membership

•Wellness and Workforce Resources: For information on support programs and resources for dental hygienists, visit ADHA Wellness Resources

•Upcoming ADHA Events: Keep an eye on upcoming conferences and events at ADHA Events

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I chat with Kristen Geist, a dental professional whose journey through airway health has transformed her approach to patient care. Diagnosed with upper airway resistance syndrome herself, Kristen shares how her personal experiences inspired her to become an advocate for sleep apnea awareness and the importance of airway health. Listen in as we dive into her path from dental hygiene to working with adults on airway, sleep apnea, and tongue tie releases, and how she collaborates with other providers to help patients uncover hidden sleep disorders that impact their quality of life.

Kristen Geist is a dental professional with over eight years of experience specializing in airway health, sleep apnea, and adult laser tongue tie release. After being diagnosed with upper airway resistance syndrome, Kristen became passionate about spreading awareness around sleep-related breathing disorders, especially in patients who may not fit the typical profiles. She now collaborates with various healthcare providers to bring comprehensive care to her patients and aims to educate the dental community on the profound effects of airway health. Kristen resides in upstate New York with her husband, son, and two rescue dogs, and is dedicated to improving patients’ quality of life through awareness and treatment of airway health issues.

Want to connect with Kristen?
https://www.instagram.com/pranawithdrkristen/

Resources from Today's Episode:
- Breathing Book by James Nestor
- https://sliiip.com/

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)

In this episode of The Aligned Hygienist, I sit down with AnnMarie DePalma, a seasoned dental professional and educator known for her advocacy around dental hygiene onboarding and team-based continuing education. AnnMarie shares her journey from clinical practice to becoming a sought-after coach for dental teams, highlighting her insights on the importance of thorough onboarding and consistent professional growth. Tune in to learn how her passion for education drives positive change in dental practices and empowers hygienists to deliver better care while building thriving, cohesive teams.

AnnMarie DePalma, CDA, RDH, MEd, FADIA, FAADH, FADHA, is a distinguished dental hygienist and educator with years of clinical experience. She’s known for her work in advancing dental hygiene through effective onboarding processes and continuing education for entire dental teams. AnnMarie’s passion lies in fostering professional growth, improving patient care, and helping practices thrive by implementing team-focused CE programs. Her work has inspired countless hygienists to embrace learning as a lifelong journey in an ever-evolving profession.

Want to connect with AnnMarie?

Email: annmariedepalma@gmail.com
Website: https://depalmaannmarie.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmariedepalma/

Want to thrive in your role as a dental professional? Whether you’re struggling with ergonomics, managing pain, or just looking for guidance to elevate your practice, I’m here to help! As a dental hygienist, coach, and consultant, I’m passionate about empowering you to work more comfortably and effectively.

🎉 Get Your Free Chairside Guide – a quick, practical resource designed to support you in providing top-notch patient care while taking care of yourself with chairside yoga exercises, ergonomic tips, and more!

Learn more about The Aligned Hygienist here.

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @thealignedhygienist

• LinkedIn: Connect with me here

• Email: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

Looking forward to helping you align your passion with your well-being!

Be well,
Caitlin

If you're struggling with ergonomics and pain and want additional support, please email me at: Hello@TheAlignedHygienist.com

I would love to see how I can support you!

CONNECT W/ CAITLIN:

• Find Caitlin on Instagram (@thealignedhygienist)
• Connect with Caitlin on LinkedIn
• Check out The Aligned Hygienist Website (www.thealignedhygienist.com)