In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Roger Price, a world-renowned expert in airway and breathing science. Dr. Price, with decades of experience in pharmacy, physiology, nutrition, and applied breathing sciences, challenges conventional approaches to health and medicine. The conversation dives deep into the science of breathing, the pitfalls of modern medicine, and the critical role of prevention and early intervention, especially in children.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• The Problem with Modern Medicine:
  • Western medicine’s reactive, disease-management focus vs. true health promotion.
  • The concept of “normal” being confused with “commonplace” dysfunction.
  • The financial and systemic incentives that perpetuate treatment over prevention.
• Breathing Science Demystified:
  • The importance of functional breathing and why most people (including clinicians) misunderstand it.
  • The critical role of carbon dioxide (CO2) in maintaining health—contrary to popular belief, CO2 is not just a waste gas but essential for oxygen delivery and pH balance.
  • Analogies: The “swimming pool” (body systems) and “train station” (oxygen transport) to explain how breathing impacts overall health.
• Consequences of Dysfunctional Breathing:
  • Over-breathing and mouth breathing lead to chronic health issues, poor sleep, and even behavioral and developmental problems in children.
  • The link between breathing patterns, epigenetics, and malocclusion (improper jaw/teeth development).
• Prevention & Early Intervention:
  • The need for education among parents, teachers, and healthcare providers to spot early signs of dysfunction.
  • Dr. Price’s work with international programs (e.g., in Romania) to assess and improve children’s functional health from kindergarten age.
  • The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and breaking down medical silos.
• Breathing Exercises & Training:
  • Why popular methods (Wim Hof, Buteyko, yoga breathing) may not address root causes.
  • Dr. Price’s philosophy: You can’t “train” a reflex—true change comes from removing compensations and letting the body breathe naturally.
  • Introduction of a free app developed by Dr. Price and his sons to help users build better breathing habits in just 26 minutes a day.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Rethink what “normal” means in health—commonplace dysfunction is not inevitable.
• Prioritize nasal breathing and be mindful of mouth breathing, especially in children.
• Prevention and early intervention are key; look for early signs of dysfunction.
• Self-care is not selfish—improving your own health benefits those around you.
• Explore Dr. Price’s free breathing app and stay tuned for his upcoming book and wearable device.

Resources & Links:

• IOPE Charity: iope.org – Learn more about Dr. Price’s global health initiatives and how to support them.
• Contact Dr. Mike: Dr.mike@theorthocoach.com
• Join the DOC Community: Find more content and connect with like-minded professionals on Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BMzqwsZMo/
• The Ortho Coach: theorthocoach.com – Access CE courses and coaching.

Quotable Moments:

• “Dysfunction is the new function, abnormal is the new normal.”
• “The chemical that keeps your swimming pool from going green is carbon dioxide.”
• “You cannot train a reflex. You have to let your body breathe you.”
• “Prevention doesn’t make money, but it saves billions.”

Thank you for listening!
If you enjoyed this episode, please share, subscribe, and leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue bringing you valuable content.

Episode Overview

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Lauren Ballinger, a board-certified pediatric dentist with a unique focus on pediatric airway health and wellness. Dr. Ballinger shares her personal and professional journey from traditional pediatric dentistry to a practice centered on airway-focused care, collaborative medicine, and holistic patient wellness.

About the Guest

Dr. Lauren Ballinger is a board-certified pediatric dentist who trained at the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. After 15 years in her family’s traditional practice, she founded her own clinic dedicated to airway and dental wellness. Dr. Ballinger is also the co-founder of the Endeavor Foundation, an international organization committed to evolving pediatric dental standards to address root causes of preventable ailments, especially those related to breathing, sleep, nutrition, and inflammation.

Key Topics & Discussion Highlights

• Dr. Ballinger’s Journey:
  How her personal experiences as a mother and clinician led her to question traditional approaches and embrace airway-focused pediatric dentistry.
• Transitioning to Airway-Focused Care:
  The challenges and rewards of shifting from a conventional dental model to one that prioritizes airway health, including the need for team training, patient education, and practice workflow changes.
• Collaborative Care:
  The importance of building networks with ENTs, allergists, myofunctional therapists, and other healthcare providers to deliver comprehensive care for pediatric patients.
• Communicating with Parents and Patients:
  Strategies for discussing airway issues and treatment recommendations with families, including the need for sensitivity, education, and involving children in their own care.
• Behavior Management in Pediatric Dentistry:
  Insights into the unique skills pediatric dentists bring to managing young patients, and how these can benefit interdisciplinary teams.
• Access to Care & Systemic Challenges:
  The difficulties families face in finding airway-focused providers, especially in rural areas, and the broader implications for public health.
• Impact of Airway Health on Child Development:
  Discussion of the neurological and behavioral consequences of sleep-disordered breathing, the overlap with ADHD symptoms, and the critical window for early intervention.
• The Role of Dentists in Whole-Patient Wellness:
  Why dentists are uniquely positioned to identify and address airway issues, and the need for the profession to embrace a more holistic, medical approach.

Notable Quotes

• “This is our window, our opportunity to treat the whole patient, not just straighten teeth.”
• “When you fully embrace airway-focused care, you have to change everything in your practice.”
• “Some of the best connections I have are with parents who are just grateful someone is listening and acknowledging their concerns.”

Resources & Links

• Learn more about DOC CE Courses: https://theorthocoach.com/ce-courses/
• Join The DOC Community on Facebook for more great content and discussions (https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/)

Connect with the Show

• Email: drmike@theorthocoach.com
• Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review The DOC Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Thank you for listening! Share this episode with colleagues or parents who may benefit from a deeper understanding of pediatric airway health and collaborative dental care.

In this episode, I welcome Mark Miller, a financial powerhouse with nearly 40 years of experience advising business owners, doctors, executives, and high-net-worth individuals on how to legally minimize taxes, grow wealth, and build lasting legacies. Mark is the co-founder of Hilton Tax and Wealth Advisors alongside Bradley J. Hilton (grandson of Conrad Hilton) and author of "Hilton Wealth: How to Invest Like an American Dynasty."

Key Topics Discussed:

• Retail vs. Smart Money Investing:
  Mark explains the pitfalls of traditional retail investing—such as hidden fees, higher volatility, and risk exposure—and contrasts it with the “smart money” approach used by the ultra-wealthy and family offices. He details how institutional strategies focus on safety, security, and long-term wealth preservation.
• The Family Office Model:
  Learn how the family office concept, pioneered by the Rockefellers, brings together a team of experts (tax, investment, insurance, estate planning) to holistically manage and grow family wealth. Mark shares how Hilton Tax and Wealth Advisors are making these advanced strategies accessible to more people, not just the ultra-rich.
• Tax Efficiency and Qualified Plans:
  The conversation dives deep into the tax time bomb lurking in traditional qualified plans (401(k)s, IRAs), and why the wealthy prioritize tax-free withdrawals and efficient estate planning. Mark discusses Roth conversions, proprietary tax strategies, and the importance of planning for your largest lifetime expense—taxes.
• Portfolio Diversification and Alternative Investments:
  Mark outlines the “bucket” approach to portfolio construction, balancing safe and secure investments, income-generating assets, institutional-grade managed money, and alternatives like private equity and real estate. He emphasizes the need for true diversification beyond the outdated 60/40 model.
• Actionable Tips for Professionals:
  Mark’s top advice for listeners:
  1. Prioritize safety and security in your investments.
  2. Minimize fees to maximize long-term returns.
  3. Reduce portfolio volatility for better wealth growth.
  4. Have a proactive plan to lower your tax burden.

Resources & Contact:

• Book:
  "Hilton Wealth: How to Invest Like an American Dynasty" – Complimentary copies available at hiltonwealth.com
• Contact Mark Miller:
  Visit hiltonwealth.com to schedule a complimentary 20-minute consultation or request an assessment of your financial situation.
• Connect with Dr. Mike:
  • drmike@theorthocoach.com
  • Join The DOC Community on Facebook for more great content and discussions: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/
  • Check out the DOC CE Courses: https://theorthocoach.com/ce-courses/

Disclaimer:
The content in this episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult your own tax and legal professionals for guidance specific to your situation.

Enjoyed the episode?
Share it with a colleague, leave a review, and subscribe for more expert insights on building a happier, healthier, and more prosperous life!

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Liz Walker, a leading orthodontist and passionate advocate for airway health. Dr. Walker shares her unique journey from a background in public relations to becoming a pioneer in integrating airway-focused care into orthodontics. Together, they explore the challenges, breakthroughs, and future of collaborative, whole-body approaches to dental and medical care.

Listeners will gain insight into the importance of early airway evaluation, the impact of CBCT imaging, and the obstacles faced by dental professionals in adopting proactive, evidence-based airway care. Dr. Walker also introduces her new initiative, AirwayZ, designed to empower both providers and patients with education and resources for better airway health.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Dr. Walker’s personal and professional journey into airway-focused orthodontics
• The influence of her father and the power of mentorship in embracing new technology (CBCT)
• The paradigm shift from traditional orthodontics to a holistic, airway-centered approach
• The role of CBCT imaging in diagnosis and treatment planning
• What “evidence-based” really means in dental and medical practice
• Systemic resistance in academia and professional organizations (AAO, AAPD) to airway-focused care
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration: building networks with ENTs, pediatricians, sleep physicians, and more
• How to educate medical colleagues and the public about pediatric airway health
• Overcoming obstacles: time constraints, burnout, and the business realities of airway-focused practice
• The launch of Airway Z: a platform for education, networking, and patient-provider connection in airway health
• Strategies for effective communication with medical colleagues and advocating for patients
• The need for a paradigm shift in orthodontic and dental education and practice

Notable Quotes:

• “Breathing is the most important thing we do. It is the most important bodily function. Breathing through the nose is the only way that our body feels safe doing it. Period.” – Dr. Liz Walker
• “The etiology is multifactorial. The solution needs to be multifaceted—and multidisciplinary.” – Dr. Mike Deluke
• “You have to breathe it to believe it.” – Dr. Liz Walker

Resources & Links:

• Airway Z: airwayz.com – Sign up for updates on Dr. Walker’s new platform for airway health education and networking.
• Contact Dr. Liz Walker: liz@airwayz.com | breathe@airwayz.com
• The Ortho Coach: theorthocoach.com – Access CE courses and private coaching with Dr. Mike Deluce.
• Join the DOC Community on FG: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AWfwf25zU/
• Orhan Tuncay Article ( AJODO, 1993): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8249937/

Calls to Action:

• Know a great guest for the show, or want to be featured? Email Dr. Mike at mike@theorthocoach.com.
• Subscribe, rate, and review The DOC Podcast on your favorite platform to help us reach more listeners.

About the Show:
The DOC Podcast is dedicated to helping dental and medical professionals lead happier, healthier, and more prosperous lives—personally and professionally. Each episode features in-depth conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners who are shaping the future of healthcare.

Thank you for listening!
Remember: You have been blessed with the ability to do amazing things.

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Trish and John Hopper, parents of Lauren, to share their family’s transformative journey through airway-focused, proactive orthodontic care. Discover how early intervention not only changed Lauren’s smile but also dramatically improved her sleep, health, and confidence.

⏰ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 – Introduction & Listener Appreciation
02:30 – The Impact of the Show: Airway and Orthodontics
05:00 – Why Early, Holistic Care Matters
08:00 – Lauren’s Story: From Crooked Teeth to Airway Discovery
12:00 – The Diagnosis: Beyond Teeth – Sleep, Breathing, and Growth
18:00 – The Treatment Plan: Braces at Age 6, No Expanders
25:00 – The Parent Experience: Fears, Hopes, and Trust
32:00 – Lauren’s Transformation: Health, Sleep, and Confidence
40:00 – John’s Perspective: Airway Management as a CRNA
48:00 – The Results: A New Smile, Better Sleep, and a Happier Child
55:00 – Reflections: Why Early Intervention Matters
1:00:00 – Advice for Parents and Providers
1:05:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect

✨ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• The importance of shifting from a reactive, tooth-focused approach (“Ortho 2.0”) to a proactive, holistic model (“Ortho 3.0”)
• How Lauren’s airway issues were discovered during a routine orthodontic visit
• The decision to use braces at a young age instead of traditional expanders
• The emotional journey for parents: skepticism, education, and relief
• The dramatic improvements in Lauren’s sleep, energy, and self-confidence
• Insights from John, a nurse anesthetist, on airway health and long-term outcomes
• The broader message: why early, airway-focused orthodontics can change lives

🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS:

• Visit theorthocoach.com for CE courses and coaching
• To learn more about Dr. DeLuke's early Phase I braces and wires technique: https://theorthocoach.com/courses/phase-i-arch-development/?portfolioCats=99
• Join the DOC Community on Facebook for more content and discussion: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/16WN2TbP5Z/
• Contact Dr. Mike: drmike@theorthocoach.com

🙌 THANK YOU for listening and supporting The DOC Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share with anyone who could benefit from Lauren’s story and the message of proactive, holistic care.

orthodontics#airwayhealth #parenting #pediatrics #podcast #healthykids #earlyintervention #holistichealth #TheDOCPodcast

In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing the amazing Dr. Rebecca Bockow – a duly trained orthodontist and periodontist. We discuss:

• How Becca’s background in restorative dentistry and periodontics helped her understand the critically important role that interceptive orthodontic treatment can play in redirecting growth and reducing the severity of the malocclusion.
• The impact Drs. Slick VanArsdall, Vince Kokich, and Jeff Rouse had on Becca’s approach to interceptive orthodontic treatment.
• The need to reframe our mission and the purpose of early orthodontic intervention.
• The possible reasons why many orthodontic residents receive little to no training in interceptive treatment.
• The value of CBCT in determining the etiology of the malocclusion.
• The importance of focusing on the transverse dimension.
• Why it is essential to focus on the overall health of our patients and not just their teeth.
• The importance of developing an interdisciplinary team of colleagues within your community.
• The challenges associated with obtaining a sleep study on a child and the potential flaws of the data gathered.
• Studies that show snoring alone (not OSA) can lead to learning deficits and decreases in gray matter.
• Which sleep study Becca uses for her patients and at what timepoints she has them fill it out.
• Possible reasons why Phase I treatment has historically received a bad rap and what can be done to reframe that image.
• The need to dispel the notion that orthodontists who address pediatric airway are diagnosing and treating sleep apnea.
• The basis for the AAO selecting 7-years-old as the age at which patients should first see the orthodontist.
• What the future holds for the profession of orthodontics, especially as it pertains to interceptive treatment and airway.

LINKS

-Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Pediatric-Sleep-Questionnaire_fig1_347054293

-Ferris 6 Sleep Study: https://www.fairest.org/tools/

-Rethinking Rhinoplasty – Howard Stupak: https://www.amazon.com/Rethinking-Rhinoplasty-Facial-Surgery-Re-Analysis/dp/3030446751
-The DOC Community on FB: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BpPABTX5w/
-The DOC Website: https://theorthocoach.com/

In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Steven Olmos, a world-renowned expert in craniofacial pain and sleep-related breathing disorders, and founder of TMJ & Sleep Therapy Centres International.

With over 40 years in dentistry, Dr. Olmos shares his journey from general practice to becoming a global leader in airway and pain management, and why he believes dentistry must evolve to address root causes, not just symptoms.

We discuss:

• How Dr. Olmos built a worldwide network focused on treating pain and sleep disorders

• The critical connection between airway health, sleep, and chronic pain

• Why current dental education and insurance models need to change

• The importance of holistic, patient-centered care

• Practical advice for both dental professionals and parents seeking better health outcomes

• And much more!

If you’re passionate about the future of dentistry or want to understand how airway and sleep impact overall health, this conversation is a must-listen!

LINKS:

Learn more: https://tmjtherapycentre.com
Contact: drmike@theorthocoach.com

The DOC Website: https://theorthocoach.com/

Overview:
In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I sit down with M.C. Laubscher—business owner, investor, financial freedom strategist, and host of the acclaimed Cashflow Ninja podcast. Together, we dive into the strategies the wealthy use to build generational wealth, the concept of becoming your own bank, and actionable steps for professionals and business owners to take control of their financial future.

Guest Bio:
MC Laubscher is the founder of Producers Wealth, a bestselling author, and the creator/host of Cashflow Ninja. He specializes in helping clients develop alternative wealth strategies and is a member of the Forbes Finance Council and the Million Dollar Round Table.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• MC’s journey from South Africa to the US and his early influences (including the impact of "Rich Dad Poor Dad")
• The concept of financial freedom and how it can be achieved by building a family office
• How to become your own bank using the Infinite Banking Concept
• The power of life insurance as an asset and a tool for generational wealth
• Practical steps for business owners and professionals to implement these strategies
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid scams in the insurance and wealth-building space
• The importance of financial education, cash flow management, and legacy planning
• M.C.’s experience as a podcaster and the growth of Cashflow Ninja

Resources & Links:

• M.C. Laubscher’s website: Producers Wealth
• Free eBook & audiobook: Get Wealthy For Sure
• M.C.’s podcast: Cashflow Ninja
• Dr. Mike’s custom balance sheet: TheOrthoCoach.com
• DOC Podcast on Cashflow: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-numbers-you-need-to-know-to-achieve-financial/id1689703392?i=1000642958320
• Listeners of The DOC Podcast can receive a $500 discount on registration for Airway Palooza 2025 in Fort Lauderdale by using code DOCPALOOZA at checkout. https://airwayhealthsolutions.com/palooza
• Contact M.C.: mc@producerswealth.com
• Contact Dr. Mike: drmike@theorthocoach.com

Calls to Action:

• Like, subscribe, and share if you found this episode valuable!
• Comment below with your questions or topics you’d like to hear more about.
• Check out the links above for free resources and to connect with our guest.

Join the Community:

• Join The DOC Community on Facebook for more great content and discussions (https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/)

Thank you for tuning in to The DOC Podcast! Remember, you have been blessed with the ability to do amazing things.