Contrary to Ordinary, Exploring Extraordinary Personal Journeys

CariFree - Exploring Extraordinary Personal Journeys

Join Dr. Kim Kutsch, the brilliant mind behind CariFree, as he explores the extraordinary lives of thought leaders in the dental industry, and beyond. Contrary to Ordinary explores further than dentistry - here we unravel the minds of change-makers, paradigm shifters, and world shakers. Every two weeks, we dive into the stories of our remarkable guests—ordinary people who continually defy limits. Discover their tales of success, resilience, and self-awareness, and explore how they leverage these experiences not only to elevate dental practice and patient care but also to champion personal growth and entrepreneurship. Listen for captivating conversations with innovators who seamlessly blend art and technology, pursue curiosity, and create the truly extraordinary. Contrary to Ordinary isn't your typical dentistry podcast—it's a vibrant community that's hit #1 in ‘Entrepreneurship,’ #3 in ‘Business,’ and #21 in ‘All Podcasts’ for a reason. We've had the pleasure of hosting inspiring guests like innovators, dental leaders, pioneering inventors, and artists, including Angus Walls, Machell Hudson, Dr. Simon McDonald, Dr. Bobby Birdi, Rella Christensen, Professor Phillip D. Marsh, Carmen Ohling, John Kois, Dr. Susan Maples, Doug Young, Colt Idol, Stephanie Staples, and many more who've graced our mic. Each episode isn't just a listen; it's a lesson in living an extraordinary life authentically, embracing rebellion, and nurturing leadership. We dive into diverse topics, from mentoring, coaching, personal development, and work-life balance to self-awareness, emotional intelligence, leadership, storytelling, altruism, and motivation. And yes, we also cover dentistry—exploring natural dentists, dental health, dental laboratories, oral care, oral surgery, dental hygiene, caries disease, brushing teeth, and overall tooth care. Tune in to Contrary to Ordinary for a unique blend of wisdom that goes beyond the ordinary and resonates with all aspects of life! This podcast aims to empower you to be extraordinary in your dental practice and improve not just your dental care but your overall life! Do you have an extraordinary story you’d like to share with us? Or perhaps a question for Dr. Kutsch. Contact us on our Instagram, Facebook or Twitter today. About Our Host: Meet Dr. Kim Kutsch: a retired dentist with 40 years of experience, prolific writer, thought leader, inventor, and researcher in dental caries and minimally invasive dentistry, brings his insatiable curiosity to the forefront. Eager to learn from those breaking boundaries in dentistry, particularly in preventative and non-invasive dentistry approaches, Dr. Kutsch launched the Contrary to Ordinary podcast. As a keen creative and curious mind, Dr. Kutsch extends his podcast guest list to artists, entrepreneurs, and fascinating minds who have piqued his interest. He wants to learn from them and see how he can be inspired by their extraordinary ways of living and adapt his learnings into his own life and his business, CariFree. About CariFree: CariFree is the new model for oral health and cavity prevention. Dr. Kutsch is the CEO and founder of this business. They create cutting-edge technology and science-based solutions to common dental health concerns for the whole family, making it easy to banish cavities for good with preventive strategies over restorative procedures. Find out how dentists are using CariFree products to revolutionize their dental practices here: https://carifree.com/success-stories/. read less

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Introducing Contrary to Ordinary: Exploring the Extraordinary with Dr. Kim Kutsch

Introducing Contrary to Ordinary: Exploring the Extraordinary with Dr. Kim Kutsch

Welcome to "Contrary to Ordinary," where Dr. Kim Kutsch showcases thought leaders in the dental industry - and beyond - who push the boundaries of what's possible. Hear conversations with innovators who blend art and technology, chase curiosity, and create the truly extraordinary. From cutting-edge tech to creative approaches to game-changing innovation, learn from the best in the business and discover what unique qualities make them tick. Join us to hear inspiring stories, practical insights from the most creative minds, and uncover the common threads that make people extraordinary.

19. Dr. Simon McDonald on Being Grateful Pt.2

19. Dr. Simon McDonald on Being Grateful Pt.2

In the last episode, we began speaking with Dr. Simon McDonald, CEO and co-founder of Rhondium. Simon is a "serial inventor and entrepreneur", who has brought a number of groundbreaking inventions into the field of dentistry. You might be familiar with the V-Ring and the Tri-Clip, but his other notable inventions include the One Visit Crown and the Grip Tab. In part 1, Simon talked us through his inventive process and stressed that each of his creations have taken countless hours to be fully realized. He also described how he studied dentistry in the UK at King's College in London but moved to New Zealand when his first child was still young. He fell in love with the country and set up his own dental practice there. Through the years, he used the spare rooms in his practice to house the dental inventions he’s created across his career.In part 2, we’re going to delve into some more of Simon’s inventions and explore why he is grateful for everything he gets in life.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Simon McDonald on LinkedInRhondium Dental Products WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeWhat did a young Simon like to do?Simon’s latest product offering.Why Simon is so grateful for everything he receives.Simon’s adventures outside of dentistry.

18. Dr. Simon McDonald on the Inventors Spirit Pt.1

18. Dr. Simon McDonald on the Inventors Spirit Pt.1

Today’s guest is Dr. Simon McDonald. He's been described as a "serial inventor and entrepreneur", who has brought a number of groundbreaking inventions into the field of dentistry. You might be familiar with the V-Ring and the Tri-Clip, but his other notable inventions include the One Visit Crown and the Grip Tab. Simon studied dentistry in the UK at King's College in London but moved to New Zealand when his first child was still young. He fell in love with the country and set up his own dental practice there. Through the years, he used the spare rooms in his practice to house the dental inventions he’s created across his career. Like many of the guests on this show, Simon never sits still and balances his dental practice alongside other projects. Simon’s inventions have advanced the way that dentistry approaches oral care. This is Part 1 of Simon’s interview, and this episode will focus on his inventive spirit and discuss the countless hours it takes to realize an invention as a reality.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Simon McDonald on LinkedInRhondium Dental Products WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeHow Simon found dentistry.Why Simon loves inventing better dental products.A few entrepreneurs that inspire Simon.What it takes to create a truly groundbreaking dental product.

17. Dr. Bobby Birdi on Being Grateful

17. Dr. Bobby Birdi on Being Grateful

Today’s guest Dr. Bobby Birdi is unique in many ways. However, many people know him for being one of North America’s very few Certified Dual Specialists in Periodontics and Prosthodontics. He is an adjunct Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia and the University of Minnesota, where he is involved in multiple dental implant research projects and clinical trials. He also actively lectures both nationally and internationally in the fields of implant surgery and prosthetics. Bobby is also the co-founder of the Digital Dentistry Institute which offers global training programs in 11 countries.He's written articles, has contributed to textbooks, and so much more. It's clear from this amazing resumé that Bobby is someone who is passionate about all things dentistry.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr.Bobby Birdi on LinkedInDr. Bobby Birdi BioWhat's In This EpisodeBobby’s grateful approach to his life.How does Bobby manage his time?Bobby’s approach to mentorship.The guidance of Bobby’s children.

16. Carmen Ohling on Asking Better Questions

16. Carmen Ohling on Asking Better Questions

In this episode we're speaking to someone who "helps guide high achieving women to write their own permission slip and live the life of their dreams". Carmen Ohling, a keynote speaker, Flow Academy founder, and holistic life Coach. After 16 years in the corporate world, Carmen made the decision to follow her passion to help others be their best selves. Everyone who meets Carmen is inspired by her and I'm excited to share our conversation with you today.At 25 Carmen found out that she had multiple sclerosis, but instead of slowing down, she worked even harder in her corporate career. Eventually, she started asking herself what she really wanted. She invites us all to ask better questions of ourselves, even when we’re busy and before we burn out.Carmen is also the host of The Permission Slip Podcast, where she talks about different facets of life including mindset, health, business, and more. It gives practical advice for listeners to change their lives today.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInCarmen Ohling on LinkedInCarmen Ohling WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeWhy did Carmen decide to become a life coach?Carmen’s experience of the corporate world.What sort of questions should we be asking ourselves?How Carmen found inner peace.

15. Stephanie Staples on Being ‘Nice for a Living’

15. Stephanie Staples on Being ‘Nice for a Living’

In this episode, we're going to be talking to a person who helps people who are nice for a living thrive - Stephanie Staples. Stephanie is a prolific motivational speaker and coach who shares her positive message with busy professionals. She has a background in nursing, but after a moment of extreme burnout, she decided she wanted to dedicate her life to helping other people realize their full potential. Her coaching style is magnetic. You'll find her mingling with her audience, encouraging them to work harder on themselves than on anything else. Stephanie has also appeared on radio, television, and is the author of When Enlightening Strikes – Creating a Mindset for Uncommon Success, The Try Angle: A New Slant on Life, and even a children’s book: Noah & the Try-ceratops.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInStephanie Staples on LinkedInYour Life, Unlimited WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeHow a moment of burnout set Stephanie on a motivational speaker’s path.The challenges that Stephanie experienced growing up.How Stephanie coaches people who are ‘nice for a living’.How ordinary people inspire Stephanie.

14. Bill Brown on the Power of Lasers

14. Bill Brown on the Power of Lasers

The first working laser was operated by Theodore Maiman on May 16 1960 at the Hughes Research Laboratory in California. Maiman may have been the first person to operate a laser, but the theory behind them dates back to Einstein in the early 20th century. He was already thinking about a way to amplify light and its source before we had the means to do it.After their pioneering use in the 60s, it didn’t take long for medicine to take note and start testing lasers. Today's guest is Bill Brown, who became interested in lasers and their use in dentistry during that pioneering period of engineering history. Bill is one of the last men standing from the early period of lasers and their use in dentistry and he’s seen a lot of change over the years.Bill currently serves as Vice President of innovation and Business Development at BIOLASE, a world leader in dental lasers.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInBill Brown on LinkedInBIOLASE WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeWhere does Bill get his drive and energy?The pioneering use of lasers in dentistry.Why you should try and push outside of your comfort zone.Bill’s health struggles in his early life.

13. Graeme Milicich on Going Against The Grain

13. Graeme Milicich on Going Against The Grain

What do Albert Einstein, Coco Channel, and Thomas Edison have in common? During their studies, they were all seen as 'difficult students'. They looked at the rigid systems that they were part of and rejected them. Now we see them as innovators and pioneers whose achievements ring through history.Questioning education paradigms is something that Dr. Graeme Milicich is all too familiar with. He’s practiced dentistry for over 40 years and began challenging existing practices during his time at dental school. Today Graeme is known around the world for his pioneering work in minimally invasive dentistry. He’s an expert in the fields of minimal intervention, caries risk assessment, and management of minimal intervention restorative techniques. He's a Diplomate and Founding Board Member of the World Congress of Minimally Invasive Dentistry (WCMID). He’s also a Fellow, Master, and Board Member of the World Clinical Laser Institute, and a Founding Board member and Honorary Lifetime Member of the New Zealand Institute of Minimal Intervention Dentistry.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Graeme Milicich ProfileWhat's In This EpisodeGraeme’s experience of hard labor.Learning how to say ‘no’.How Graeme moved the dial on minimally invasive dentistry.What values are most important to Graeme?

12. Dr. Rick Campbell on Understanding 'The Two Legged Animal’

12. Dr. Rick Campbell on Understanding 'The Two Legged Animal’

Pets are, in many ways, a mirror to ourselves. If we care for and invest time in them, you're going to see that reflected back at you ten-fold. And today's guest certainly understands the complex world of animals and how to keep them happy. Dr. Rick Cambell, the owner of Willow Creek Pet Center, the largest veterinary group practice in the United States. In the world of veterinary medicine, Rick is extraordinary. He's treated thousands upon thousands of animals across his career and was one of the first people to recognize the importance of early years training for puppies.For Rick, it's never been about the money. Like many extraordinary people, he's always sought to serve. He's been described as a "continuous learner that strives to be the best in all he does''. After a difficult childhood, Rick spent time in the military before deciding to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Rick Campbell on LinkedInWillow Creek Pet Center WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeRick opens up about his difficult upbringingHow does Rick approach leadership?Rick’s proudest career achievementHow to understand the ‘two-legged animal’

11. Colt Idol on the Utility of Art

11. Colt Idol on the Utility of Art

"We all know that art has monetary value but its true value is much deeper. Art transcends race, religion, wealth, status and age. It is connected to us at a soul level. The need for artful expression has always been and will always be. It is for everyone, by everyone."These are the words of today's guest Colt Idol, a painter who is described as the “new face of the Old West”. Colt uses dazzling color and plays with form in his work to bring to life the freedom and nostalgia of a time long gone. Before Colt became an artist he was working towards a professional baseball career but suffered a number of injuries that eventually forced him to put that dream to the side. His father, the renowned outdoor personality and artist Dick Idol brought him into his world, setting up alongside him at an easel in his studio. Colt is a lifelong resident of Montana and operates a number of galleries locally, as well as selling his own art. Colt believes that art is a utility and something everyone can enjoy in their own way.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInColt Idol WebsiteColt Idol InstagramWhat's In This EpisodeHow Dick Idol took Colt under his wing.Colt’s use of color to create other worlds.What is the utility of art today?How we can all appreciate and experience art.

10. Professor John Featherstone on Forging Your Own Path

10. Professor John Featherstone on Forging Your Own Path

In his 1841 essay Self-Reliance, philosopher and essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson tells us to “trust thyself: every heart vibrates to that iron string”. In other words, we should all trust in the sacredness of ourselves and our own path, and not try to imitate the road others are destined to travel. Emerson wrote extensively about individuality, self-reliance, and non-conformism, and it makes sense that today’s guests would have a quote from him hanging on his refrigerator.Professor John Featherstone has always followed his own, as he puts it, “weird” dreams. He’s the retired Dean of Dentistry at the University of California, San Fransico, and spent ten years in the role after joining the faculty in 1995 as a professor. He’s contributed so much to the field, but one of John’s greatest achievements has to be the Caries Management By Risk Assessment (CAMBRA) Protocol which he co-created during his time at UCSF. The CAMBRA Protocol looks beyond the traditional ‘drill and fill’ approach to dentistry towards more preventative, long-term solutions. John has won more prizes and titles than you can count but admits that sometimes his work became all-consuming.If all that wasn’t enough, John is also an accomplished pianist, mountain climber, skier, and author. He’s also mentored so many people throughout his career, which he cites as his proudest achievement. ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInProfessor John Featherstone LinkedInWhat's In This EpisodeJohn’s whirlwind life of study and practiceThe importance of scholarships and mentoring to JohnHow everyone should find their own pathJohn’s road to peace

9. Professor Philip D. Marsh on Dealing with the Dogma Pt.2

9. Professor Philip D. Marsh on Dealing with the Dogma Pt.2

In the last episode, we introduced Professor Philip D. Marsh, Professor Emeritus of Oral Microbiology at the School of Dentistry at the University of Leeds in the UK. Across his incredible career, he's published over 300 research papers and review articles and is co-author of a leading textbook on oral microbiology. In Part 1, Phil walked us through his early experiences as a penniless Ph.D. student in London and on to his first graduate job. We also discussed the alienation Phil felt as he felt pushback from some of his senior peers. In this episode, Phil breaks down some more of his key studies and findings. We’ll also be discussing Phil’s admiration for the extraordinary professional communicators, he’s met who can distill the essence of what they’re describing down to its very essence.It’s impossible to say how many people have been touched by Phil’s work. It just goes to show that everyone gets nervous and doubtful sometimes, it’s the extraordinary ones that push through.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterProfessor Philip D. Marsh’s LinkedInUniversity of Leeds School of DentistryWhat's In This EpisodePhil expands on his research, the CAMBRA Protocol, and the pushback he’s faced.What traits does Phil think extraordinary people have?The open-minded approach Phil took to his research.What is Phil up to now that he’s retired?

8. Professor Philip D. Marsh on Challenging the Orthodoxy Pt.1

8. Professor Philip D. Marsh on Challenging the Orthodoxy Pt.1

If you're going to be a trailblazer, then you're going to have to take down a few trees along the way. You have to be willing to follow your nose and believe in what you're doing enough to embrace your critics with open arms.Today’s guest is Philip Marsh, Professor Emeritus of Oral Microbiology at the School of Dentistry at the University of Leeds in the UK. In his impressive career, he's published over 300 research papers and review articles and is co-author of a leading textbook on oral microbiology. He has won numerous awards including the ORCA-Rolex Award for Caries Research in 1991, the IADR Distinguished Science Award (Research in Dental Caries) in 1998, the Society for General Microbiology (UK) Colworth Prize Award in 2001, and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2008 from the World Congress of Minimally Invasive Dentistry. The only one missing is a Noble Prize!Join us next time for Part 2 of Phil’s interview.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterProfessor Philip D. Marsh’s LinkedInUniversity of Leeds School of Dentistry What's In This EpisodePhil’s journey to the field of oral microbiologyThe confidence-shattering criticism he faced early in his careerHow Phil braved the wilderness and stood up for what he believed inThe science behind Phil’s groundbreaking theories

7. Rella Christensen on a Life of Two Halves Pt.2

7. Rella Christensen on a Life of Two Halves Pt.2

In the last episode, we introduced Rella Christensen of TRAC Research, a nonprofit institute dedicated to in-depth long-term clinical studies of restorative materials, preventive dentistry, and dental caries. Rella took us on a journey through her incredibly busy life - raising three children and pursuing her career as the director of the Clinical Research Associates Foundation. We also heard about Rella’s husband and mentor Gordon, who helped her follow her research interests by giving her access to equipment and resources. In this episode, we’re delving into some of Rella’s most important discoveries, her opinion on work-life balance, and the challenges of raising three good kids.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Rella Christensen's ProfileClinicians Report (formerly known as CRA)What's In This EpisodeRella’s findings in air abrasionDid Rella ever achieve work/life balance?Rella’s biggest career achievementGordon’s role as a mentor to Rella

6. Rella Christensen on Following Curiosity Pt.1

6. Rella Christensen on Following Curiosity Pt.1

Sometimes to forge the path ahead, you need to create the tools to do so from scratch. Having the courage to blaze a trail using your own resources and time is something that only genuinely extraordinary people will attempt. Today's guest, Rella Christensen, has taken on that risk and has come out on the other side with fresh ideas and strategies to help the dental industry better care for its practitioners and patients.In 1976, Rella co-founded and directed the Clinical Research Associates Foundation, the world's only nonprofit dental products testing laboratory. The CRA shares its findings with subscribers in 87 countries. Rella became a team leader at TRAC Research, a nonprofit institute dedicated to in-depth long-term clinical studies of restorative materials, preventive dentistry, and dental caries.Join us next time for Part 2 of Rella’s interview.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Rella Christensen's ProfileClinicians Report (formerly known as CRA) What's In This EpisodeKim shares two of his favorite stories about RellaHow Rella met her husband GordonHow Rella managed studying and working full timeWhere Rella’s curiosity led her

5. Angus Walls on Being a Rebel

5. Angus Walls on Being a Rebel

Breaking away from tradition and challenging the status quo are the hallmarks of an extraordinary person. Today’s guest is Angus Walls, who, across his forty years in the field, has excelled at finding better ways to care for his patients. Since 2013, Angus has worked as the Director of the Edinburgh Dental Institute at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Between 2017 - 2018, Angus served as the ninety-fourth President of the International Association for Dental Research and opened his inaugural address by saying: "I've had an almost career-long interest in oral health and aging".He's always put this vulnerable population at the front and center of his work, tackling the complex problems that this group face with creativity and compassion.Prior to his current position, Angus spent eighteen years at Newcastle University as a Professor of Restorative Dentistry, only a few miles from his family home of North Shields in the North East of England. Angus has never been afraid to follow opportunity, even if there is a strong tradition in the UK to practice where you studied.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInAngus Walls LinkedInEdinburgh Dental InstituteInternational Association for Dental ResearchWhat's In This EpisodeWhy did Angus decide to go against the grain and practice away from where he studied?How Angus has challenged the status quo throughout his career.Why Angus is so interested in oral health and aging.What Angus will do next.

4. Machell Hudson on Resilience and Compassion

4. Machell Hudson on Resilience and Compassion

Having a patient's best interests at heart is critical to the work that dentists do. This means training every single member of the dental team, empowering them to feel compassion for and respond to their patient’s needs holistically. This is a philosophy that Machell Hudson practices, not only in her work as a hygienist but in everything she does. Machell is a trusted and effective hygienist who’s been in the profession for over 15 years. In 2021, Machell founded Integrative Dental Coaching, an organization that coaches and educates dental teams to implement protocols and best practices for overall patient health. Machell is a proud and passionate fellow and member of the board of The American Academy for Oral and Systemic Health and a CariFree Cooperative Member. In her spare time, Machell is a staunch advocate for those who have been affected by human trafficking. Her journey shows us that anyone can find their way to a life that they find fulfilling.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInMachell Hudson LinkedInIntegrative Dental CoachingThe American Academy for Oral and Systemic HealthWhat's In This Episode How did Machell’s difficult childhood shape who she is today? Why does Machell teach an approach prioritizing overall patient health? How does Machell find and spread joy? How Machell got involved in helping human trafficking victims.

3. Dr. Susan Maples on Breaking the Mold and Mentoring

3. Dr. Susan Maples on Breaking the Mold and Mentoring

You can't have a healthy body if you don't have a healthy mouth. After all, it is the gateway into the body. Dr. Susan Maples is a leader in the area of total health with over 30 years of experience in dentistry. As a child, Susan was exposed to large quantities of secondhand smoke and suffered from severe allergies. Through mentorship and guidance from a few key medical professionals early on in her journey, Susan began a path to improved total health. Today, Susan is giving back by mentoring children to have better total health throughout their lives. At Susan's Hands-On Learning Lab, she emphasizes the importance of optimal oral health and nutrition. She also encourages children to consider careers like hers in dentistry.The right education and the right experience early on can entirely change the way we see the world and how we approach the rest of our lives. Susan created the Hands-On Learning Lab with that end in mind. Susan also runs the Total Health Academy, an online learning platform that helps offices transform into total health dental practices.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInSusan Maples on LinkedInSusan Maples BioHands-On Learning LabTotal Health AcademyWhat's In This EpisodeHow does Susan use the Hands-On Learning Lab to teach children about oral health?How did Susan’s childhood affect her trajectory into dentistry?The ways that Susan has broken the mold and forged her own path.What drives Susan?

2. Doug Young on Building a Vision, and Revolutionizing Dentistry

2. Doug Young on Building a Vision, and Revolutionizing Dentistry

Tooth decay, or dental caries, is the number one disease dentists treat. Yet, the common practice of drilling teeth does not cure the disease. Dr. Doug Young was one of the first to ask a seemingly simple question: If drilling does not cure the disease, why does it remain the first, and often only, option? Finding the answer led him to establish one of the pillars of modern dentistry.Dr. Young describes his younger self as a "normal dentist." Not a famous researcher. No impressive background. He sought advanced degrees, determined to make real changes in the lives of patients. Thanks to his work, the outdated 'drill' and 'fill' approach to dentistry is increasingly replaced by cariology, a study of decay that includes treatment, prevention, and interruption of damage.His work has directly impacted the organizations that worked to bring this change to light. Dr. Young is one of the founders of the Caries Management by Risk Assessment Coalition or CAMBRA, American Dental Education Association, Cariology Section, and the American Academy of Cariology or AAC.Today, Dr. Young discusses how his experiences early in life shaped the man that he is today. His success is a testament to the selfless pursuit of knowledge for the greater good. He also reveals the origin of his love for the outdoors.ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds.CariFree WebsiteCariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. Doug Young LinkedInDr. Doug Young BioAmerican Academy of CariologyAmerican Dental Education AssociationCaries Management by Risk Assessment CoalitionWhat's In This EpisodeWhat impact did mentorship have on the trajectory of Dr. Young's life?How Dr. Young saw where her wanted to be and made a plan to achieve his vision.Why the infrastructure around patient care needs to shift from 'pay per tooth' to preventative care.A deeper look into the heart of Dr. Young.

1. John Kois on Enriching The Heart, The Mind, and Dental Industry

1. John Kois on Enriching The Heart, The Mind, and Dental Industry

It may be hard to believe today, but opinion was the root of most dental practice in years past. Not in evidence-based research. When the Kois Center opened in 1994, it ushered in a revolutionary approach to dental care. It was the first center to provide a graduate program for practicing dentists that implemented a structured science-based curriculum. The center remains a flagship for science-based advances in esthetics, implants, and restorative dentistry.On the opening day of The Kois Center, founder Dr. John Kois advocated for an interdisciplinary research-backed approach to whole patient care. The Kois Center remains the only continuous learning center for dental professionals that conducts and publishes its own research. Self-funded, the research is not beholden to the interest of sponsors. In today's episode, we explore the elements that make the man behind the legendary Kois Center extraordinary. John has found his Ikigai and shared it with the world. To master the art of living, he embodies his values and tries to be fully present. Hear how he followed his curiosity and changed the way dentistry is practiced. ResourcesFollow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds. CariFree Website CariFree on InstagramCariFree on FacebookCariFree on PinterestCariFree on TwitterDr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedInDr. John Kois BioKois Center WebsiteWhat's In This EpisodeHow values guide Dr. John Kois' every decision.How to master the 'art of living' and slip seamlessly between work and play. What it means to live out the Japanese concept of Ikigai.How to temper an open mind with research and evidence.

Introducing Contrary to Ordinary: Exploring the Extraordinary with Dr. Kim Kutsch

Introducing Contrary to Ordinary: Exploring the Extraordinary with Dr. Kim Kutsch

Welcome to "Contrary to Ordinary," where Dr. Kim Kutsch showcases thought leaders in the dental industry - and beyond - who push the boundaries of what's possible. Hear conversations with innovators who blend art and technology, chase curiosity, and create the truly extraordinary. From cutting-edge tech to creative approaches to game-changing innovation, learn from the best in the business and discover what unique qualities make them tick. Join us to hear inspiring stories, practical insights from the most creative minds, and uncover the common threads that make people extraordinary.