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Dental professionals spend their days taking care of everyone else — but who is taking care of the person behind the chair? In this episode of Gums & Gossip, Hope Loyd, RDH, talks with Dr. John Besharse, PT, DPT, CSCS, founder of The Dental Physical Therapist, about the physical demands of dentistry and what they can mean for our bodies and careers. Hope met John at AADH, and they continue the conversation about dental ergonomics, posture, neck and shoulder pain, back pain, repetitive strain, injury prevention, strength, movement, and career longevity. They talk about the aches and pains dental professionals often consider “just part of the job” — and why paying attention to what your body is telling you matters. In this episode: • Dental ergonomics and the operatory • Common musculoskeletal challenges in dentistry • Neck, shoulder, and back pain • Repetitive movements and strain • Strength and posture • Injury prevention • Career longevity • Taking better care of the body behind the chair If you’re a dentist, dental hygienist, dental assistant, or dental professional, this conversation is for you. Because taking care of your patients shouldn’t mean forgetting about yourself. Every smile shares a story. 🎙️ Hosted by Hope Loyd, RDH 🦷 Gums & Gossip Learn more about Dr. John Besharse and The Dental Physical Therapist: https://www.thedentalphysicaltherapist.com/

What if the person sitting next to you is struggling—and nobody knows? This episode of Gums & Gossip™ goes beyond the dental chair and into a conversation about mental wellness, burnout, trauma and suicide prevention. Hope sits down with Sherri Lukes to talk about the human side of dentistry—and why sometimes the most important thing we can do isn’t fix, teach or diagnose. It’s notice, ask and listen. We talk about mental health in dentistry, the mouth-mind connection, professional burnout, dental fear, generational attitudes toward emotional pain, and how to recognize when someone may need support. And we ask the question: “What do you say when someone tells you they’re not okay?” This is a conversation for dental professionals, patients, leaders, educators—and anyone who cares about another human being. 🎧 Listen. 💬 Start the conversation. ❤️ Share it with someone who needs to hear it. Content note: This episode discusses suicide and mental health. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health or suicide crisis in the U.S., call or text 988. @sherrilukes @gumsngossip #GumsAndGossip #MentalWellness #SuicidePrevention #Dentistry #DentalHygiene

🎙️ GUMS & GOSSIP PODCAST | SEASON 8 Behind the Pocket: Yvette’s Story — Part 1 What happens when the person behind the white coat has a story of her own? In Part 1 of “Behind the Pocket,” Hope sits down with Dr. Yvette Carrillo for an honest, heartfelt conversation that goes far beyond periodontics. Hope first connected with Yvette on Instagram, and what started as a social media connection turned into a meaningful conversation about dentistry, resilience, women’s health, and the experiences that shape who we become. In this episode, Yvette opens up about: 🦷 Her journey through periodontal school 💔 Experiencing trauma during her professional journey 🌱 Finding resilience and learning to move forward 🌸 Navigating early menopause and women’s health 💬 Why healthcare professionals need to talk about the things we often keep behind closed doors ❤️ Turning difficult experiences into purpose ✨ The lessons she wishes she could share with her younger self This isn’t just a conversation about teeth and gums. It’s about the human being behind the professional title. Because sometimes the strongest people in the room are carrying stories you know nothing about. And as Hope always says… Every smile shares a story. 👉 Subscribe to Gums & Gossip and turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2, where we talk about Yvette’s work with The Perio Pocket, her role as founder of Scrubs & Scalpels, leadership, community, and her vision for the future of women in dentistry. 🎧 Gums & Gossip Podcast — Season 8: From Fear to Freedom Hosted by Hope Loyd, RDH, BSDH 💗 Come for the gossip. Stay for the story. Leave with a little more hope. Follow @gumsngossip and @perio.princess #GumsAndGossip #GumsAndGossipPodcast #DrYvetteCarrillo #BehindThePocket #Periodontics #DentalPodcast #WomenInDentistry #DentalHygiene #WomensHealth #DentalFear

Season 7 of Gums & Gossip with Hope Loyd wraps up with a powerful conversation about resilience, courage, and the people we meet along the way. Hope is joined by Jae, author of Pain, Fear, Triumph: Jae’s Journey. Their connection began while working together in Germany, and in this episode Jae shares her story of survival, growth, and the lessons that come from facing fear head-on. This conversation explores how childhood experiences, life challenges, and personal relationships shape the confidence we carry today. As the season closes, Hope also introduces a new step in her mission to help others overcome dental anxiety through her Dental Fear Assessment, a tool designed to help people better understand their fears and feel more empowered about dental care. Season 7 may be ending—but the journey continues. Follow the show and stay tuned for what’s ahead in Season 8.

What happens after jaw surgery—and how can airway health change your life? In this "where are they now" episode of Gums & Gossip, Jen returns to share how jaw surgery transformed more than her breathing—it reshaped her sleep, confidence, and sense of safety in her own body. We talk honestly about dental fear, medical anxiety, and the emotional side of healing that often goes unspoken. You’ll hear about: The fears Jen faced before jaw surgeryThe link between airway health, anxiety, and sleepWhat recovery was really likeWhy airway issues are often overlookedHow learning to breathe better changed daily lifeTips for advocating for yourself in dental and medical settingsThis episode is for anyone who has delayed care because of fear, felt dismissed by providers, or wants to better understand airway health and jaw surgery without the overwhelm. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to Gums & Gossip for real conversations that reduce dental fear and empower patients through education and storytelling. Tags: jaw surgery, airway health, dental fear, dental anxiety, breathing issues, airway dentistry, sleep health, patient advocacy, women’s health, healing journey

What happens when your body says “enough”—and you choose to listen? In this powerful episode of Gums & Gossip, host Hope Loyd sits down with Shalini, a somatic psychotherapist, trauma therapist, and nervous system educator from West Yorkshire, UK. Shalini shares her deeply personal journey through a full nervous system breakdown, a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), and how she healed by understanding the body’s stress and trauma responses. Together, Hope and Shalini explore: How trauma and chronic stress live in the nervous systemWhy fear shows up in the body—especially in the jaw, breath, and dental chairSimple somatic tools to regulate anxiety and feel safe againHow nervous system rituals can support healing from chronic pain, illness, and long-term stressThe connection between emotional safety, oral health, and whole-body wellnessThis episode is especially powerful for anyone experiencing dental anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, jaw tension, teeth clenching, or feeling overwhelmed by their own body. If you’ve ever felt like your body was holding fear you couldn’t explain—this conversation will meet you right where you are. 🎙️ Listen now and discover how small, compassionate practices can help you reclaim calm, safety, and trust in your body. Follow IG: gumsngossip; shalini_cameron.nervoussystem https://shalinicameron.co.uk

In this episode of Gums & Gossip Podcast, we dive into the inspiring work of a global advocate for Afghan women, Mursal Kakar , exploring the intersection of healthcare, dental wellness, education, and empowerment. From her humanitarian efforts in Germany to advocating for women’s rights on the international stage, she shares powerful stories of resilience, hope, and cultural pride. We discuss the challenges Afghan women face, the importance of access to healthcare and dental care, and how advocacy and diplomacy can create real change. This episode is a reminder that even in the toughest circumstances, hope and empowerment can thrive. ✨ Listen to learn: How Afghan women are overcoming barriers to education and healthThe link between wellness, dental care, and empowermentStories of resilience and inspiration from humanitarian effortsHow you can support global women’s rights initiativesDon’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the movement for hope, wellness, and empowerment. Follow IG @Mursalmkakar @gumsngossip

As the year comes to a close, I’m reflecting on a journey shaped by courage, change, and the decision to thrive. In this solo episode, I open up about generational fears — the ones we inherit from family, culture, and lived experience — and how they quietly influence our choices, confidence, and even our health. From letting go after my humanitarian work in Germany ended, to solo travels across Italy, Portugal, and Spain, to navigating family hospitalization and rebuilding life back in the U.S., this year stretched me in ways I didn’t expect. I share how launching Gums & Gossip, teaching about generational dental fears, stepping into entrepreneurship, and putting myself out there on social media helped me confront my own fears and build confidence, worth, and hope. This episode is an invitation to reflect: What fears are you ready to release? Where did you thrive this year? And what word will guide you into the new year? If you’re navigating fear, healing, or growth — this conversation is for you. 🎙 Listen, reflect, and join the movement to break fear and choose hope.

In this episode of Gums & Gossip, Hope sits down with Elee Joven—Cultural Intelligence Speaker, mentor, and advocate for global citizens. Elee’s story spans Guam, the Philippines, and 29 countries, giving her a rare lens on resilience, belonging, and what it takes to thrive across cultures We unpack how cultural intelligence (CQ) empowers immigrants, minorities, global professionals, and anyone navigating multicultural spaces. From reinvention to leadership, Elee breaks down practical tools for building confidence, owning your story, and turning cultural differences into strengths. . https://www.eleejoven.com If you’re interested in personal growth, global perspectives, diversity, leadership, reinvention, immigrant stories, or life abroad, this episode is for you. Topics in this episode: – Cultural intelligence (CQ) explained – Thriving as an immigrant or global citizen – Resilience, reinvention, and belonging – Leadership and confidence across cultures – The power of storytelling and representation Subscribe for more conversations that blend wellness, dentistry, global culture, and real-life resilience—with a little gossip and a lot of heart. https://www.gumsandgossip.com

This week on Gums & Gossip, I’m joined by Gabrielle Grandell, a Functional Nutritionist and Health Coach who helps people heal from the inside out. We dive into the surprising connection between gut health and dental health, why the holidays can throw both out of balance, and how to support your body without giving up joy. You’ll hear simple gut-friendly tools, dental wellness tips, and real talk about navigating sugar, stress, and celebrations. If you’re interested in functional medicine, microbiome health, oral health, or holiday nutrition, this episode will give you hope—and a few laughs along the way. Tune in, breathe, and let your gut and gums relax. Follow @gabriellegrandelle @gumsngossip https://www.gabriellegrandell.com/gabrielle-grandell/

This Veterans Day, Hope welcomes a former U.S. Army Military Police Officer who served around the world — Germany, Afghanistan, and major U.S. installations. Meet Chad Nunes...His story moves from joining the Army in 2009, to living overseas in Hohenfels and Wiesbaden, to deploying to Afghanistan in 2012, to transitioning out of active duty in 2017. You’ll hear: • Real experiences from life as an MP • What it was like serving in Germany with and without family • Deployment memories from Operation Enduring Freedom • A funny story about missing dental appointments and getting escorted • Why dental readiness matters more than most people realize • The dedication of military dental teams • Reflections on Veterans Day and life after service It’s a heartfelt, honest look at military service and the people who keep our communities strong — on and off duty. Perfect for listeners who enjoy veteran stories, military life, Army interviews, Veterans Day content, military family life, and dental care in the service. Follow Gums & Gossip for more conversations that bring heart, humor, and humanity into oral health and everyday life. https://www.gumsandgossip.com

Award-winning author Bob Northam joins Hope Loyd, The Gum Goddess Podcaster, for a bloody fun Halloween chat about vampire romance, fear, fangs, and gum health. From My Girlfriend the Vampire to The Night Child, this episode mixes chills, love stories, and laughs about relationships that bite. 🧛‍♀️ Follow: IG@rbnortham; gumsngossip FB: Robert Northam (author page); gumsandgossip #GumsAndGossip

Join Hope, The Gum Goddess Podcaster, and holistic healer Lynn as they explore how lymphatic flow, emotional fear, and dental health are connected. Learn how lymphatic massage supports detox, eases jaw tension, and helps release stored stress. Discover practical tips for boosting oral health, improving immune function, and creating true mind-body wellness. Perfect for wellness lovers, dental professionals, and anyone ready to unlock holistic healing from the inside out. Keywords: lymphatic drainage, lymphatic massage, holistic healing, dental health, gum health, emotional detox, mind-body connection, Gums & Gossip Podcast.

In this episode of Gums & Gossip, Hope — the Gum Goddess Podcaster — is joined in the studio by two incredible women, Rainy Mitchell and Health Practitioner- Lynn Morales, ND, CBP, ParBP, BAT, for a powerful conversation on fear, flow, and full-body healing. https://www.accesscompletewellness.com 👉 Rainy Mitchell, author of "Big Fat Failure" and works with Lynn, opens up about her personal story of shame, fear, and transformation — and how writing her book helped her turn pain into purpose. 👉 Lynn Morales, naturopath and wellness practitioner at Access Complete Wellness in Plano, Texas, shares her expertise in lymphatic health, energy balancing, and BrainTap therapy. She explains how the body’s innate wisdom can guide us toward healing when we finally slow down and listen. Together, we dive into: The real reasons behind dental anxiety and avoidance 🦷How emotional overwhelm shows up in the bodyWhy the lymphatic system is key for immune health, stress relief, and emotional releaseThe connection between trauma, shame, and self-careTools like BrainTap that support fear reduction and nervous system balance If you’ve ever delayed a dental visit out of fear, struggled with emotional overwhelm, or wondered how your body holds onto trauma — this episode will give you insight, compassion, and practical ways to start healing. https://www.gumsandgossip.com

What are you really hungry for? In this episode of Gums & Gossip, Hope (The Gum Goddess Podcaster) sits down with Michelle Petties, author of Leaving Large, to talk about her journey of overcoming food addiction, emotional eating, and obesity while healing grief and cultural wounds. This is more than a weight loss story—it’s about the link between emotional trauma, oral health, and mindset transformation. Michelle shares how she shed more than pounds, releasing grief and anger, and finding freedom in her story. 💡 Episode Highlights: Emotional eating and food addiction recoveryThe connection between dental fears and emotional painHow Black women’s health and cultural expectations shape our habitsCreating healing through compassion, not shamehttps://michellepetties.com Follow Gums & Gossip for honest conversations on health, oral wellness, and overcoming fear—and discover the hope that comes with healing from the inside out. https://www.gumsandgossip.com #FoodAddiction #EmotionalEating #DentalFear #OralHealth #HealingTrauma #BlackWomensHealth #WellnessPodcast #WeightLossTransformation #MindsetShift #GumsAndGossip