This one is for my fellow business owners because I’v been through a few rough patches and figured out a few things along the way. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly playing catch-up in your business, juggling customer service, managing a team, handling insurance tasks, running marketing campaigns, and still trying to show up for your clients or patients, you're not alone.

One of the most transformative things I’ve learned as a business owner is this: you don’t just need help, you need systems.

In recent years, the economic landscape of the United States has faced a series of tumultuous shifts. From the unpredictability brought on by political changes, including the election our new president, to the ongoing challenges of job security and inflation, Americans are navigating a complex financial environment. These factors underscore the growing necessity for individuals to seek additional sources of income beyond their traditional 9-to-5 jobs.

In response to the increasing need for financial independence and security, I invite you to join the waitlist for my upcoming side hustle course. This course will provide you with step-by-step guidance on identifying viable side hustle opportunities, setting up your business, and scaling it for success. Join the waitlist here to start your journey towards financial empowerment.

Last year, I shared a milestone that was both exciting and emotional for our family: my son Braxton starting Pre-K for the very first time. If you missed that story, you can read it here.

This year, we’ve hit another milestone, Braxton has officially started Pre-K 4. And let me tell you, what a difference a year makes! The growth, changes, and even the challenges we’ve seen over the past year have been eye-opening.

Growth We’ve Seen

In just one year, Braxton has blossomed in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

• Advanced vocabulary: His teachers continue to remark on how well he communicates. We’ve always been intentional about speaking to him in full sentences and encouraging conversation, and it shows. He comes home using new words and phrases daily, and sometimes even surprises us with how articulate he’s become.

• Confidence in the classroom: Last year, he was the “new kid” navigating school for the first time. This year, he’s stepped into the role of class leader. He’s more comfortable, more vocal, and even helps his younger classmates when he can.

• Love of learning: From storytelling to counting games, Braxton has fully embraced the joy of learning. It’s such a gift to watch his curiosity unfold in real time.

Finding a great dentist is essential for maintaining good oral health, preventing dental issues, and ensuring you receive top-notch care. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which dentist is right for you. Whether you're new to an area, looking to switch providers, or searching for a specialist, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Once you’ve found the right dentist, make regular appointments for checkups and cleanings to maintain good oral health.

Choosing the best dentist requires research, recommendations, and personal visits. By following these steps, you’ll find a provider who meets your needs, fits your budget, and helps you maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way we work, create, and earn money. Whether you’re looking for passive income, side hustles, or a full-time AI-powered business, there are numerous ways to leverage AI to generate income. This guide will explore the best AI-driven income opportunities and provide actionable steps to help you get started.

AI automates tasks, enhances productivity, and reduces the time required to perform various functions. This makes it an excellent tool for those looking to maximize their earnings while minimizing manual labor. With advancements in machine learning, natural language processing, and automation, AI can now perform tasks once thought to be exclusive to humans.

When it comes to oral care, many of us are looking for safer, more natural alternatives that don’t compromise effectiveness. Whether you have sensitivities, allergies, or simply prefer to avoid certain ingredients, finding the right toothpaste, mouthwash, and other essentials can be challenging.

That’s where Cleure’s oral care line comes in! Developed by dentists, Cleure offers fluoride-free, SLS-free, and mint-free products, making them an excellent choice for those looking to steer clear of harsh additives. Their collection includes:

✅ Toothpaste (Original & Cinnamon)
✅ Mouthwash (Alcohol-Free & Soothing)
✅ Floss (Gentle on Gums)
✅ Lip Balm (Hydrating & Free of Irritants)
✅ Toothbrush (Soft Bristles for Comfort)

In today’s economic climate, having a side hustle isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity for many. Whether you’re looking to pay off debt, save for a big goal, or achieve financial independence, a well-managed side hustle can be a game-changer. With the right strategies, you can build and scale a profitable side hustle while maintaining balance in your full-time career.

My Side Hustle Blueprint course is launching soon! This course will take you step-by-step through finding, building, and scaling a successful side hustle, even with a demanding career. Be sure to join thewaitlist here to be the first to know when it’s live!

Here’s a sneak peek at what you need to do to get started.

With the rise in alternative oral care solutions, nano-hydroxyapatite toothpaste has been gaining traction as a highly effective, fluoride-free (or complementary) option for dental remineralization. If you’re considering switching to or learning more about hydroxyapatite-based toothpaste, this guide will explain everything you need to know, from particle size, ideal concentrations, and clinical efficacy to its combination with fluoride.

Nano-hydroxyapatite (nHAp) is a synthetic form of hydroxyapatite, a naturally occurring mineral that makes up 97% of tooth enamel and 70% of dentin. It was first introduced in oral care products in the 1980s as a biomimetic alternative to fluoride. Hydroxyapatite nanoparticles work by filling microscopic holes and defects in your enamel, essentially rebuilding and strengthening teeth.

‘Tis the season to stuff those stockings with gifts that spark joy and promote healthier smiles! Whether you’re shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, this curated list of budget-friendly, orthodontist-approved oral care goodies is here to brighten up the holidays—all under $25. Let’s spread cheer with these festive and functional finds!

This holiday season, give the gift of healthy, sparkling smiles. These affordable and thoughtful stocking stuffers are sure to delight your loved ones, and their teeth. Here’s to a season full of joy, laughter, and brilliant grins.

Social media has become an essential tool for healthcare professionals looking to stay connected, grow their practices/brand, and engage with patients. In this era, it is imperative that healthcare professionals embrace social media marketing to stay relevant, connect with patients, and build their brand. Gone are the days when patients solely relied on word-of-mouth recommendations, directory listings or the nearby practice to choose their healthcare providers. Now, potential clients are likely to check your social media presence before making a decision.

Whether you’re a dentist, physician, physical therapist, or any other healthcare professional, social media marketing offers a valuable platform to educate, engage, and build trust with your audience. In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can harness the power of social media to grow your practice, establish authority, and create a loyal following.

This year has been a major milestone for my little boy, Braxton. He turned 3 and officially started pre-K in August! The transition from home to school has been quite an adventure, not just for him but for our entire family. I’m sure many parents can relate to the whirlwind of emotions and adjustments that come with this phase.

For the first three years of his life, Braxton was home with us, and we made a very intentional decision not to enroll him in daycare. Instead, I retired my mom to be his caretaker, and she’s been with him since birth. With both Reggie and I having demanding schedules as dental professionals, we felt this was the best option for our family. I worked four days a week while Reggie, who’s semi-retired, worked three days a week. We maintained a good balance of time with our patients and plenty of quality time with Braxton, which was a priority for us.

It’s important to note that our decision to keep him out of daycare was purely based on our unique situation. We have nothing against daycare and would’ve gladly gone that route if we didn’t have the choice to have my mom care for him. Every family has to do what works best for them!

Side hustles have become more than just a way to make extra money—they’re a path to achieving financial freedom, discovering passions, and even building a new career. Whether you’re balancing a full-time job, managing a household, or pursuing a professional degree, starting a side hustle can give you the flexibility to work on something you love while boosting your income.

Starting a side hustle can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re already balancing a lot in your life. But it’s about taking small, consistent steps toward your goal. The world is full of opportunities, and there is a side hustle that aligns with your skills, interests, and passions.

The most important thing is to take that first step. Whether it’s writing your first blog post, listing your first product on Etsy, or signing up for a freelance platform, just begin. Who knows? One day, you might find yourself with a full-fledged business that brings you joy and financial freedom.

Young adults should learn money management skills as early as possible. Those who learn financial literacy earlier are more likely to build good financial habits. 

To be on track with building wealth, it's important to know various money saving tips. This article will discuss essential strategies to help you attain financial independence as a young professional.

Financial literacy is crucial for young professionals aiming to build wealth and ensure long-term security. This article outlines four key financial tips to help young adults establish strong financial habits. These tips help you take control of your finances early on to achieve your financial aspirations.

In recent months, the economic landscape has become increasingly complex, with rising costs impacting nearly every aspect of daily life. From the grocery store to the gas pump, prices seem to be climbing with no end in sight. For young professionals and families alike, managing finances during these times requires a thoughtful and strategic approach.

Before diving into financial strategies, it’s important to understand the broader context. Inflation has been driving up the cost of living, while interest rates are fluctuating, impacting everything from mortgages to credit card debt. These factors, combined with potential job market uncertainties, make it more crucial than ever to be proactive with your finances.

Justin Welch once said, "The happiest entrepreneurs I know aren't the richest. They're the ones who built a business that complements their lives rather than consuming it." This statement resonates deeply with many of us who have ventured into entrepreneurship, only to find ourselves ensnared in a trap of our own making. The entrepreneur trap is the misconception that success is measured solely by revenue. In reality, true success lies in the freedom and fulfillment that comes from designing a business that supports your life. In the pursuit of entrepreneurial success, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating revenue with happiness. However, the happiest entrepreneurs are those who design their businesses to complement their lives rather than consume them. By working during your most productive times, pursuing an inspiring mission, and automating or delegating the rest, you can create a business that supports your life and brings true success in the form of freedom and fulfillment.

Labels can limit potential and creativity. As someone who has always taken a somewhat unconventional path, I find the term “unorthodox” not just fitting, but empowering. That’s how The UnOrthoDoc was born—a reflection of my multifaceted life that defies simple categorization.

We’re often told to specialize. Get an expensive degree, secure a niche job, and stick to it for decades. While this worked in the past, the modern world demands adaptability and a broad skill set. In today’s tech-driven society, being a specialist can sometimes mean limiting your growth and opportunities. AI and automation are rapidly changing the job market, and those with narrow expertise may find themselves left behind. I say this as a specialist myself—an orthodontist, a specialty of dentistry. I get that this is contradictory. I suppose I am a walking contradiction.

As a mother and business owner, I’ve come to realize that the skills required to excel in both roles are strikingly similar. The multitasking, the planning, the emotional investment, and the sheer determination needed to succeed as a mother mirror the qualities necessary for running a successful business. Owning and operating an orthodontics practice, an online candle company, and a blog that has blossomed into a small business has given me unique insights into how motherhood and entrepreneurship intersect. Let’s explore the parallels between these two demanding yet rewarding roles.

By embracing the similarities between these two roles, we can draw strength from our experiences and apply valuable lessons across different areas of our lives. Whether nurturing a child or growing a business, the journey is filled with ups and downs, but the rewards are immeasurable. Let’s celebrate the parallels between motherhood and business and continue to thrive in both realms.

I wanted to share something that's been on my mind lately. You know, we're often caught up in the whirlwind of life—rushing from one task to another, ticking off endless to-do lists, and constantly striving for more. We live in a world that glorifies hustle culture, where busyness is worn like a badge of honor and productivity is often seen as the ultimate goal. But have you ever stopped to wonder if this relentless pace is really serving us?

In slowing down, we open ourselves up to a richer, more meaningful life. We find joy in the little things, deepen our relationships, and discover a sense of peace and contentment that hustle culture could never provide. So, let's embrace the art of slowing down and savor each moment of this beautiful journey called life

I've been reflecting on this a lot, and I've come to realize that the hustle culture we've been conditioned to embrace might actually be doing us more harm than good. It's time we consider the profound benefits of slowing down.

In business and entrepreneurship, success often hinges on the ability to identify and meet a critical need in the market. This becomes especially vital during times of economic uncertainty. Choosing a business model that addresses a real problem and setting up in a location where your services are in demand can be the difference between thriving and merely surviving. This article explores the importance of these factors and offers insights into building a business that can weather economic downturns and remain recession-proof. A need-based business model ensures sustained demand, customer loyalty, and a competitive edge. Choosing a strategic location enhances accessibility, economic stability, and logistical efficiency. By focusing on these critical factors, entrepreneurs can build businesses that are resilient, adaptable, and capable of thriving even in economic turmoil. Embracing innovation, managing costs effectively, and diversifying revenue streams further strengthen the ability to navigate and succeed through economic challenges.

Everyone is looking for natural alternatives to everything these days, your toothpaste is no different. For many many years we’ve heard our dentists tell us about the importance and benefits of fluoride and why we need to ensure that it exists in all our dental products. I am one of those dentists that have long touted the use of fluoride. The benefits and importance of it still holds true. However, in our quest to find more natural options hydroxyapatite as a fluoride substitute has been getting a lot of attention lately.

There is a pretty distinct difference between fluoride and hydroxyapatite. Fluoride is a naturally found element and in toothpaste it works by building a stronger, more acid resistant tooth surface and thus help to prevent cavities. However, higher doses of fluoride are seen to be possibly unsafe and can weaken bones and ligaments. The amount you’re likely to use in your toothpaste, under 20mg, is safe.

My son, Braxton, just turned 3, and it's astonishing to reflect on how much has changed over the last three years. When he turned 2, I thought I was getting the hang of motherhood and thought by now I could ease back into focusing more on my career. However, this past year has shown me that each phase brings new challenges and rewards. Instead of finding it easier to balance work and family, I've been leaning more toward family life and the idea of being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), or perhaps even semi-retired like my husband has crossed my mind several times. Each day, I’m taking things step by step and trusting God to guide my decisions.

In today's fast-paced world and economic climate, the pressures of work and life responsibilities often collide, leaving many individuals feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Burnout, a state of chronic stress characterized by feelings of exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional efficacy, has become increasingly prevalent in the workplace. having gone through these challenges myself, this post explores the nuances of navigating burnout, offers insights into its impact on dentistry (or healthcare in general), and provides practical strategies for combatting and yes, avoiding it.

Understanding Burnout: Burnout can manifest differently for each individual, but common symptoms include fatigue, irritability, lack of motivation, and decreased productivity. It often stems from prolonged periods of stress, unrealistic expectations, and a lack of work-life balance. In dentistry, where practitioners face demanding schedules, high patient volumes, and the pressure to deliver optimal care, burnout is a significant concern.

With the gig economy booming and traditional employment models evolving, side hustles have become a lifeline for many individuals seeking financial security and professional fulfillment. From freelance writing and e-commerce ventures to consulting gigs and creative pursuits, there's no shortage of opportunities to turn your skills and passions into profitable ventures on the side.

But while starting a side hustle is relatively easy, scaling it into a thriving business requires a whole new level of dedication, strategy, and vision. As your side hustle gains traction and momentum, you'll inevitably face the question: "How can I take this to the next level? How do I turn my side gig into a full-blown thriving business?"

I have officially entered the phase of life where all my friends, acquaintances, and colleagues are married, and it seems like there's a baby shower almost every month. As the invitations pile up, so can the pressure to find the perfect gift for the new parents-to-be. This is why today, I've compiled a list of some seriously stellar ideas for baby shower gifts that new moms will adore.

Baby showers can be a fun time for everyone: cake, party games, gender reveals, and all the fun things, But baby showers can also be stressful for the guest who has no idea what to gift the new parents. So, Let's talk strategy - First off, always check if the parents-to-be have a registry. Trust me, this will help you in making sure your gift hits the mark. And speaking from experience, the best baby shower gifts are often those that new parents have requested or recommended. If you’re looking for some inspiration, below are some of our picks for the best baby shower gifts and ideas for showering the parents-to-be.

You shouldn't have to compromise on achieving a brighter, whiter smile due to teeth sensitivity issues. With the right approach and products, you can effectively whiten your teeth while addressing sensitivity concerns. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how to navigate teeth whitening with sensitivity, ensuring a radiant pearly white smile without discomfort.

Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening. The main reason for this discomfort is due to the bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbide peroxide. This causes a chemical reaction on the tooth surface that increases the porosity of the enamel thus making your teeth sensitive. This discomfort can be pronounced or heightened if you have existing conditions like enamel erosion, exposed dentin, or gum recession. However, by adopting the right strategies (and products), you can minimize sensitivity while still achieving noticeable whitening results.