In Part One of this two-part series, we sit down with a dentist who shares her deeply personal journey of coming out as transgender and the profound impact it had on every aspect of her life.

She reflects on years of struggling with her identity, navigating complex family dynamics, and facing the very real fear of losing the dental practice she worked so hard to build when she decided to transition. This episode is an honest and vulnerable look at what it means to choose authenticity in the face of uncertainty, professional risk, and personal loss.

Through her story, we explore themes of resilience, courage, and what it truly means to show up as yourself — even when the stakes are high.

In this engaging episode, Brian and Pam chat with Dr. Jeannette MacLean, a board-certified pediatric dentist, as they dive into the power of effective partnerships between general dentists and pediatric specialists to deliver the best possible oral health outcomes for children.

Millions of patients walk into dental offices each year with jaw tension, headaches, or clenching—classic signs of TMJ disorder—yet most leave without a true solution. For years, dentists have been limited to mouthguards, Botox, or referrals, missing both a clinical and business opportunity hiding in plain sight. In this episode of the Dental Economics podcast, we sit down with Dr. Jonathan Levine, DDS, a cosmetic and restorative dentist who has integrated Emface TMJ, a breakthrough non-invasive technology that uses synchronized radiofrequency and HIFES muscle stimulation to relax and tone facial muscles. Together, we explore how this single innovation is helping dentists bridge function and aesthetics, transforming how they approach patient care and practice profitability. Listeners will learn how the Relaxation protocol targets masseter and temporalis tension to ease TMJ discomfort—while the Toning protocol lifts and firms the cheeks, jawline, and forehead for a more youthful, balanced appearance. Beyond the clinical benefits, Dr. Jonathan Levine shares firsthand how Emface TMJ created a cash-based revenue stream, improved patient retention, and reignited team enthusiasm. The conversation highlights how embracing functional facial wellness positions dental professionals at the forefront of a new category—one that treats pain, enhances confidence, and drives growth without adding insurance complexity or chair time.