In this episode of Burnout Bites, Kari Carter-Cherelus sits down with Misti Lenoir, RDH, a dental hygienist with 16 years of experience and a passion for transforming oral healthcare through innovation, education, and community outreach.

Misti shares her journey in dental hygiene, discussing how her commitment to comprehensive oral-systemic care has shaped her career and fueled her dedication to improving patient outcomes. She explores the growing role of technology in dentistry, how clinicians can embrace innovation while maintaining patient-centered care, and why expanding access to oral health education remains a critical part of advancing public health.

Beyond clinical practice, Misti discusses her work leading teams, delivering continuing education programs, and advocating for underserved communities. Her purpose-driven approach highlights the powerful impact dental professionals can have both inside and outside the operatory.

Whether you're a practicing hygienist, a dental leader, or someone looking to create greater impact in your career, this conversation offers inspiration and practical insights for the future of dental hygiene.

In this episode of Burnout Bites, Kari Carter-Cherelus sits down with Cheryl Calmis, RDH, BS, MEd, a respected dental hygienist, educator, and advocate with more than 30 years of clinical experience.

Cheryl shares her journey from clinical practice to becoming a nationally recognized speaker and educator. With expertise in periodontics, laser therapy, and Guided Biofilm Therapy, she discusses how dental hygienists can continue to grow professionally while remaining passionate about patient care.

The conversation explores the importance of lifelong learning, the role of evidence-based dentistry, and how education can empower clinicians to provide exceptional care while avoiding stagnation and burnout. Cheryl also reflects on her work as a Professional Educator for Waterpik™, her contributions to dental publications, and the value of mentorship and professional involvement throughout a dental hygiene career.

Whether you're a new graduate or a seasoned clinician, Cheryl's insights offer inspiration for building a sustainable, fulfilling, and impactful career in dental hygiene.

Cheryl Calmis is a dental hygienist with more than 30 years of clinical experience specializing in periodontics, laser therapy, and Guided Biofilm Therapy. She holds bachelor's degrees in biology and dental hygiene and earned a Master of Education degree with honors in Instructional Design.

A sought-after speaker and educator, Cheryl has presented continuing education programs for organizations nationwide and has contributed articles to Today’s RDH, Cocofloss, and DoctorBase. She is currently in her seventh year as a Professional Educator for Waterpik™ and remains actively involved with ADHA, CDHA, and the American Academy of Periodontology's Dental Hygienist Recognition Program.

In this episode we discuss:

• Amanda’s journey becoming a dental hygienist as a deaf professional

• Barriers students with hearing loss face in dental hygiene programs

• The mission behind That Deaf RDH and the importance of mentorship

• How representation and advocacy can improve diversity in healthcare

• The role of myofunctional therapy and airway health in dentistry

• Why early intervention in oral function and breathing matters for children

• How dental hygienists can become advocates for airway health

• Advice for professionals navigating challenges in their careers

This powerful conversation highlights mentorship, advocacy, and how representation can transform healthcare professions.

Amanda Zubricki is a deaf mom, dental hygienist, nonprofit founder, and myofunctional therapist dedicated to improving access and awareness in dentistry. She founded That Deaf RDH, a nonprofit that provides mentorship and community support for students with hearing loss pursuing careers in dental hygiene.

Through The Myo Project, Amanda works with families to address oral function, breathing patterns, and early intervention strategies that support healthier long-term outcomes.

Amanda’s work focuses on advocacy, mentorship, and empowering others to overcome barriers while transforming the future of dental and airway health.

Connect with Amanda

• That Deaf RDH • The Myo Project • Instagram: @ThatDeafRDH