On the Cusp with Dr. Brett Gilbert
Discover "On the Cusp," the podcast igniting your unique potential for a purposeful life. I'm Dr. Brett Gilbert, your guide. Uncover your personal success journey as we delve into transformative concepts.Escape societal constraints and self-doubt to unleash your true self. Learn self-discovery, innovation, and growth's magic. Heal, silence your inner critic, and realize your worth for profound connections.Embrace your authenticity, self-assuredness, and boundless limits. I'll share my own transformative story—a cusp of change. Together, we'll explore self-discovery, mindful living, creativity, and holistic well-being.Join diverse guests—thought leaders and visionaries. Flourish through challenges, chasing aspirations. Embark on an i...
Solo Short: Reviving the Mission of Healthcare
Healthcare wasn't always about rushing between appointments, managing overhead, and surviving burnout. It started with a calling — and sometimes, all it takes is a jungle in the Dominican Republic to remember that.In this solo episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert takes us inside the Revive Mission, a transformative dental mission trip to El Valle, Dominican Republic, where a group of like-minded clinicians came together to serve a community in need — and in doing so, rediscovered why they became healers in the first place.
Connect with Dr. Brett Gilbert on Instagram, LinkedIn or email him at drbrettgilbert@accessendo.org
Modern Endodontics: It’s Rooted in Communication with Dr. Bill Nudera
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with his longtime friend and colleague Dr. Bill Nudera — board-certified endodontist, Air Force veteran, textbook author, and founder of Nuendo — for a candid, wide-ranging conversation about what it really takes to build a career in endodontics.
Bill doesn't hold back. He opens up about being waitlisted twice before breaking into endo on his third application cycle, the Air Force mentorship that changed his trajectory, and why the biggest mistakes in clinical dentistry are made not with a handpiece — but with your mouth. Together, Brett and Bill c...
Solo Short: Embracing Powerlessness
In this solo episode of On the Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert reflects on closing his 18-year practice after his building was slated for demolition — and what he learned about resilience, impermanence, and letting go.
Dr. Gilbert shares his journey from solo practitioner to joining Northwest Dental Specialists, exploring the illusion of permanence we build around our careers and the freedom that comes from embracing powerlessness. He reminds us that the magic of our practices was never in the building or technology — it was always in us.
This episode offers perspective and encouragement for any clinician navigating tran...
Decoding Your Worth with “The Love Formula” with Zoey Charif
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Zoey Charif—author, relationship theorist, and founder of a revolutionary approach to love and compatibility. After being cheated on in her early 20s, Zoey spent two decades developing "The Love Formula," a data-driven framework that's helped hundreds of people understand their self-worth, evaluate compatibility, and build lasting relationships.
Discover why the "magic number" is a 4% higher partner score, why dependability ranks as the #1 relationship value across all demographics, and how a simple self-assessment can predict relationship success with surprising accuracy. Zoey breaks down the difference between falling in love an...
When Purpose Calls with Dr. Ronni Brown
In this episode of On the Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Dr. Ronni Brown — clinician, researcher, public health advocate, and author of A State of Decay. Dr. Brown shares her extraordinary career journey from nearly 30 years as a correctional facility dentist to becoming a county leader in overdose prevention.
Together, they unpack the realities of treating patients with substance use disorders, the importance of compassionate curiosity in clinical care, and how dentistry must evolve to meet the needs of vulnerable populations. Dr. Brown offers deep insight into recognizing signs of addiction, navigating burnout, taking courageous career pi...
Solo Short: Seasons of Life - Everything is Learning
Change is the only constant, and every season of life invites a new lesson. In this reflective episode of On the Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert explores how growth unfolds through the evolving chapters of our personal and professional lives. From ambition to reflection, from striving to surrender, each stage offers wisdom that shapes who we become.
Through honest insight and lived experience, Dr. Gilbert shares how embracing transition with curiosity instead of resistance turns life into a continuous classroom — where challenges become teachers and progress becomes peace.
Key takeaways from this episode:Growth has se...
The Endocator - Biomarker Technology in Endodontics with Dr. Randolph Cross
Technology is only as powerful as the insight it reveals. In this conversation with endodontist Dr. Randolph Cross, we explore how biomarker technology via the Endocator device is transforming endodontics—from guessing to knowing, from assumption to measurable proof. Through ATP testing, dentists can now confirm the cleanliness of a canal, elevate patient trust, and redefine what precision truly means.
Key takeaways from this episode:Data brings confidence—to both doctor and patient.True innovation refines, not replaces, human skill.Endodontics is evolving toward measurable excellence.Curiosity keeps even experts learning and grow...
Your Path To Greatness with Paola Ucelo
Greatness isn’t about becoming more. It’s about remembering who you already are. In this conversation with embodiment guide Paola Ucelo, we explore how peeling back the “clay” of fear, shame, and old conditioning reveals the Golden Buddha within.
Key takeaways from this episode:
Greatness is self-acceptance, not achievement.Healing begins when we feel and release the pain we carry.The body holds memory, and listening creates space for wholeness.Mystery is part of life; trust it, breathe into it, and let it unfold.The greatest gift you can give the worl...
The Art of Bending Time with Michelle Niemeyer
What happens when the career you’ve worked so hard to build becomes the very thing that drains you? For Michelle Niemeyer, a former attorney turned coach and keynote speaker, burnout and autoimmune struggles forced her to stop, reevaluate, and ultimately reinvent her life.In this episode, Michelle shares how she created The Art of Bending Time—a framework for reclaiming energy, clarity, and joy. She unpacks why clarity is the cornerstone of fulfillment, how to release goals that no longer fit the person you’ve become, and the ways mentorship, movement, and emotional reconnection can transform not just your work...
Root Canal Safety: Facts, Myths, and Real Outcomes with Dr. Allen Ali Nasseh, Dr. Mehdi Rahimi & Dr. Brett Gilbert
In this patient-facing conversation, endodontists Dr. Brett Gilbert, Dr. Allen Ali Nasseh, and Dr. Mehdi Rahimi clear up the biggest myths about root canal treatment. They explain what “root canal,” “root canal therapy,” and “root canal infection” actually mean, why online misinformation persists, and how today’s endodontics uses microscopes, modern irrigation, and bioactive materials to disinfect and preserve natural teeth predictably. You’ll hear how imaging confirms healing, why follow-up is part of treatment, when retreatment or surgery is appropriate, and the real tradeoffs with extraction and implants. If you’ve ever wondered whether a root canal is safe—or if a root-treated...
Igniting Your Self-Determined Future with Dr. David Rice
Are you living a life by design, or simply following the expectations set by others? What would it look like to truly put your personal fulfillment first?
In this episode of "On The Cusp," host Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Dr. David Rice, founder of IgniteDDS and author of "Is Everyone Smiling but You?" Together, they explore how clinicians can move beyond the daily grind to architect a life that aligns with their passions, values, and personal goals—without abandoning their professional roles.
This episode delves in...
Solo Short: Trusting the Next Version of Yourself
The version of yourself that you are today isn’t the same version as last year, and it won’t be the same version of you next year. We are changed, molded by our experiences to adapt for the better, the worse, and everything in between.
Ever feel a flicker of anxiety before a big case, a crucial conversation, or stepping into a new challenge—wondering if you’ll truly be ready? What if you could learn to trust that the best version of yourself will always arrive on time?In this solo short episode of "On The Cusp...
Protecting Smiles: ADA President Dr. Brett Kessler on Water Fluoridation, Dental Insurance, and Clinician Burnout
What happens when science meets controversy at the intersection of dental health and public policy? In this episode of "On The Cusp," host Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Dr. Brett Kessler, the sitting president of the American Dental Association, for a timely conversation about the hot-button issue of water fluoridation, insurance reform, workforce challenges, and the mental well-being of dental professionals.
Packed with real talk and up-to-the-minute insights, this episode breaks down the misconceptions and critical data surrounding fluoride in our water, the ongoing push for meaningful insurance reform, the realities of access to care, and...
Sacred Mornings: Transforming Routines with Cacao, Yoga, and Intentionality with Dr. Cristian Pavel
What if the secret to your daily clarity, connection, and well-being was already in your cup—waiting to be brewed with intention?
In this episode of "On The Cusp," Dr. Brett Gilbert invites back Dr. Cristian Pavel for his third guest appearance—this time, to take listeners on a journey through the intentional ritual of cacao. Together, they explore the transformative power of sacred ceremonies, the science and spirit behind ceremonial-grade cacao, and how daily rituals designed with purpose can unlock a deeper sense of presence and gratitude. With a focus on personal grow...
Genius Unlocked: Intuition, Purpose and the Path to Fulfillment with Paul Davis
Are you building a life that truly reflects who you are—or just checking boxes laid out by someone else?
In this episode of On The Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Paul Davis—three-time bestselling author and intuitive business consultant—for a powerful conversation about purpose, passion, and the truth behind unlocking your unique genius. Drawing from Paul’s book Genius Unlocked, this episode is packed with honest insights and eye-opening moments for anyone feeling stuck, burned out, or out of alignment—especially clinicians and high-achievers in demanding roles.
Mastering Emotional Intelligence: In-the-Moment Strategies for Managing Stress with Dr. Julie Wilkes
How well do you really know your emotions…and could understanding them be the key to transforming both your personal life and your work as a clinician?
In this episode of "On The Cusp," Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Dr. Julie Wilkes, PhD, author, executive, and emotional intelligence expert, for an inspiring conversation about the real impact of EQ (emotional intelligence). Together, they break down what emotional intelligence truly means, share evidence-based tools to elevate your EQ, and discuss how clinicians (and anyone!) can use these skills to find more focus, resilience, an...
Solo Short: Dopamine Detox - Take Back Your Natural Calm
Too much of a good thing can be too much … that includes too much of a good feeling! Are you ready to uncover the hidden traps of dopamine addiction?
Find out how our digital habits might be tying us to chronic stress and burnout without us realizing it!In this episode of "On The Cusp," Dr. Brett Gilbert takes on a solo journey to explore dopamine addiction and its link to burnout in clinicians. As a recovering dopamine addict himself, Dr. Gilbert shares insights from his recent 10-day digital detox and how it he...
Root Canal Safety and Oral Health Care with Martin Pytela
Let’s set the record straight on the safety of root canal treatment! Dr. Brett Gilbert explains how modern endodontics uses advanced tech to transform outdated perceptions. It's not just dentistry; it's an evolving science. Let's rethink dental health!
In this episode of "On The Cusp," Martin Patela returns from the Life Enthusiast Podcast to question Dr. Gilbert on the myths about root canals, share horror stories when dentistry goes wrong, and learn what to look for when approaching a clinician for your dental care.
From Martin's li...
The Imperfect Cocktail: Perfectionism + Self-Judgement - Solo with Dr. Brett Gilbert
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of perfectionism and self-judgment in your clinical practice? You're definitely not alone. In our latest episode, "The Imperfect Cocktail," Dr. Brett Gilbert delves deep into these very challenges that many clinicians face.For this solo episode, Dr. Brett shares his personal journey and how shifting from a mindset of perfectionism to excellence has been transformative for him. He discusses the detrimental effects of trying to achieve the impossible ideal of perfection and offers a healthier, more sustainable alternative focusing on excellence and continuous learning.Highlights from the episode include:
Perfectionism...
Food, Mood, and Metabolic Typing with Martin Pytela
How often are you thinking about what goes into your body? Beyond counting calories, beyond thinking of the controversial food pyramid, when have you thought of reaching your most customized and beneficial nutrition?
In this episode of "On The Cusp," Dr. Brett Gilbert welcomes Martin Pytela, a certified metabolic typing advisor and host of the Life Enthusiast podcast. This episode delves into five key areas: The significance of metabolic typing and how understanding individual metabolic profiles can dramatically influence diet and wellness; The interplay of food and mental health, including specific examples li...
Embracing Big Mick Energy: Life Lessons from My Mom, Marilyn
One of the most difficult challenges we go through in life is losing a loved one. One of the greatest treasures we gain in our lives are the memories and moments with people we love.
In this solo episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert honors his late mother, Marilyn, sharing her indelible influence on his life and growth. He delves into Marilyn's "Big Mick energy," a vibrant personality trait that helped her endure life's challenges and inspire those around her. Dr. Gilbert reflects on her life lessons, encapsulating the resilience and determination she imparted through...
No Matter How You Feel, Your Next Patient is Waiting-A Personal Guide to Managing Grief and Trauma As A Busy Clinician-Solo with Dr. Brett
No one gets through this life unscarred! Experiencing grief while being a clinician can be extra challenging when you need to be a smiling face for patients when you are not feeling happy. At times it can feel impossible just to get through your patient schedule.
How do others do it? How do human beings who are clinicians manage personal challenges? Sometimes it may feel like you don’t have the tools to cope with personal tragedy. You are not alone!
In this episode, host Dr. Brett Gilbe...
Finding Your ‘Why’ - Who Do You Want To Be in 20 Years? with Dr. Mike Deluke
When clinicians start their journey into dentistry, it looks like there’s a clear path from school, a career in dentistry and ultimately, a prosperous retirement. However, choosing your health, quality of life and time with family must be prioritized to live the life you dreamed of.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews the ‘Ortho Coach’ himself, Dr. Mike Deluke. Dr. Deluke takes us on his incredible journey from the epitome of clinical orthodontic practice to his current role as an educator, coach, and podcaster.
Armed with ex...
The Top Five Pillars For Clinician Fulfillment with Dr. Rinesh Ganatra
As clinicians we must recognize how important it is to grow with the times! Mindset shifts around how you envision your practice and your life are paramount to growing your business in 2025 and beyond.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert welcomes back Dr. Rinesh Ganatra, a seasoned dentist turned entrepreneur, to unravel the five essential pillars to personal and professional growth and fulfillment in the next 5 years.
Dr. Ganatra shares his paramount insights on lifestyle design, health and wellness, AI and crypto technology, entrepreneurship and impact. Rinesh a...
Helping Dentists Thrive - Dental Nacho Wisdom with “Dr. Nacho”, Dr. Paul Goodman
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Dr. Paul Goodman, AKA Dr. Nacho, who shares the highs and lows of dentistry, business, coaching, and conferences.
Dr. Goodman explains the formation of the Dental Nachos community, discussing how the platform has grown to support dentists in a myriad of practical and emotional ways. He emphasizes the critical role of authentic communication and emotional intelligence, not only in managing patient relationships but also in fostering a supportive professional network. Reflecting on his upbringing as the son of a dentist, Dr. Goodman shares personal anecdotes that...
The Energetics of Clinical Life: The Truth on Wellbeing with Dr. Delphine Jeong
Dentists and all clinicians struggle to keep their head above water just like everyone else. Patients might not see it, but behind the kind smiles and friendly advice, exhaustion can come with being a great clinician. Finding tools to overcome these anxieties and pains whether through school or as a practitioner is imperative for long-term success and long-term health.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Dr. Delphine Jeong, an exceptional healer and dentist who cares for her patient's dental health, and also uses holistic energy practices for aiding in mental, e...
Finding Calm in Chaos: Mindfulness, Breathwork, and Dentistry with Diana Liu
If you’re a clinician, you understand stress on levels few can comprehend. A pill or a nap won’t calm your mind, but some practices can have long-term positive effects on the way you work, view patients, and even view yourself.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Dr. Diana Liu, dentist and wellness expert, about her transformative journey from anxiety-ridden dental student to mindfulness extraordinaire, a master at her dental practice.
From constant stress to an unregulated nervous system, Dr. Liu shares the common struggles of d...
The Truth Behind the Smiles - A Suicide Discussion with Melissa Methven
You never know the pain someone is fighting, whether a patient, fellow clinician, friend, or family member. However, you don’t have to fight alone.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Melissa Methven, a dental hygienist and author of "The Truth Behind the Smiles: Suppression, the Silent Killer How to Find Hope, Never Give Up, and Cultivate Resiliency." Melissa courageously retells her personal journey of finding inner peace through breathwork and the necessity of living in the present after her husband's tragic death by suicide. She discusses the pervasive theme of emotional su...
Feeling Stressed & Overwhelmed? Return To Your Center - A Short Exercise with Paola Ucelo
In this episode of On The Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert continues his conversation with Paola Ucelo for a guided exercise designed to realign yourself when you feel out of balance; Re-finding your center among your internal North, South, East, and West.
We invite you to follow along with this exercise by finding somewhere you can be alone, calm, close your eyes, and breathe as you embark on this journey through yourself. Follow Paola’s journey:
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Finding Your Center - A Pathway to Personal Peace with Paola Ucelo
In this episode of On The Cusp, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Paola Ucelo—an embodiment guide, artist, designer, and coach. Paola dives into the practice of witnessing emotions without immediate reaction, sharing how this helps balance personal and professional life.
They discuss staying authentic in a hectic clinical world, and Paola guides us through a relaxing meditation. Plus, they talk about bringing ceremony into daily routines to enhance both personal and professional experiences. It's a fresh look at blending personal values with a clinical career.
Fol...
Mental Health and WooWoo: Keys to Fulfillment In Dentistry and Life with Dr. Melissa Seibert
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Dr. Melissa Seibert, a dentist, educator, and host of the Dental Digest podcast. Dr. Seibert opens up about her unique journey, balancing a demanding career with personal responsibilities as a US Air Force officer, wife, and mother.
She shares how finding her passion in dental education and social media reignited her love for dentistry after initial challenges. Dr. Seibert emphasizes the transformative power of gratitude practices, discussing how tools like saunas and glucose monitors have enhanced her mental and physical well-being. She also reflects on the i...
Burnout and Self-Care: But Please Don’t Tell Anyone with Dr. Christina Radics
Everybody suffers from burnout... but who is able to actually recognize and admit it?
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert and Dr. Christina Radics sit down to explore Dr. Radics’ journey through dentistry, DJing, and coaching. Dr. Radics opens up about her stark realization of how childhood experiences shaped her perfectionism and people-pleasing tendencies, culminating in professional burnout. She delves into the transformative power of self-care and setting boundaries, sharing insightful stories of how rediscovering joy and passion in life, particularly in music, played a crucial role in her healing. Dr. Radics emphasizes th...
Personal and Professional Life Lessons - Health, Business and Family with Dr. Kirk Coury
A fancy car, a big house, money in the bank are the tell-tale signs of success. But what about your mental state? Your relationships? Your goals?
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Dr. Kirk Coury, a renowned endodontist and founding partner of Specialized Dental Partners. Dr. Kirk expands on the mental and physical challenges of building an endodontic practice, the stressors unique to dental professionals, and the coping skills that he uses to keep people at the forefront of his decision-making; whether that be family, patients, or even investment opportunities.<...
Inhale, Exhale, Evolve: Unlocking the Potential of Breath Work with Dr. Cristian Pavel
Sometimes all you need is to take a deep breath.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert welcomes Dr. Cristian Pavel, a breathwork facilitator, yoga instructor, entrepreneur, and spiritual leader. Dr. Pavel shares his transformative journey and the profound impact of breath work on his life, discussing how it has influenced his spiritual, somatic, and scientific understanding. He emphasizes the importance of consistency in breath awareness for lasting physiological change and shares how it has changed his dental practice, particularly when treating patients with stress and anxiety.
Happiness, Diversity & the Brig with Scott Kawamoto
Change is never easy, radical change can feel impossible, but when you take time to know yourself, change can be a freeing and empowering experience.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert sits down with Scott Kawamoto, a cosmetologist, stylist, and all-around renaissance man. Scott shares his compelling life journey and the lessons he's garnered along the way.
From how to help wayward youth during his own time in prison to finding purpose and fulfillment through his sense of self, Scott emphasizes the importance of balance over financial...
Solo Short: Finding True Success Through Fulfillment
Have you felt burnt out, unfulfilled, or just melancholy about your clinician career? You’re not alone.
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert takes us on a personal journey toward fulfillment in life and career. Dr. Gilbert shares the importance of looking beyond the traditional markers of success to truly find what ignites our passion and joy. He talks about the need to nurture personal growth and the unexpected doors that open when we pursue what lights us up.
Drawing from his own experiences in launching this ver...
Master Your Mindset & Manifest Your Dream Life with Ryan Clarkin
In this episode, Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Ryan Clarkin, a mindset coach, transformation facilitator, and social influencer.
Ryan shares his journey, discussing how his spiritual beliefs and interconnectedness with the universe have shaped his life and career. He dives into his experiences helping professionals, including dentists, overcome burnout and find fulfillment beyond their careers.
Ryan and Dr. Brett explore the roles of fulfillment, transformation and manifestation, shedding light on the tools Ryan uses to help people reconnect with their authentic selves and create a life of their o...
How I Thrive with Cancer! A Candid Interview with Three Time Cancer Survivor Jonathan Gegerson
In this episode of ‘On The Cusp,’ Dr. Brett Gilbert interviews Jon Gegerson, a thrice cancer ‘Thriver’ and author of "Perspective C."
Jon shares his extraordinary journey, recounting transformative stories of kindness from strangers, such as the profound impact of a valet named Alfred, whose simple act of kindness before Jon's first radiation treatment gave him immense comfort. Jon discusses the intertwining of his personal and professional life, including how his diagnosis may have been detected much earlier by basic examination of his neck during his consistent routine dental visits.
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Generational Echoes: Uncovering Ancestral Trauma Healing with Jen Wende
In this episode of "On The Cusp," Dr. Brett Gilbert welcomes guest Jen Wende, an ancestral healing specialist, to illuminate the profound impact of ancestral healing.
Dr. Gilbert and Jen explore the biological transmission of stress and trauma through generations, highlighting the significance of understanding family ancestry for healing and self-discovery. They discuss the power of ancestral healing in releasing emotional pain and trauma, offering stories of personal experiences and client encounters that illuminate the transformative potential of connecting with one's roots.
Dr. Gilbert also draws parallels b...
Bridging Dentistry and Your True Calling: The Inspiring Journey to Online Mentorship with Dr. Rinesh Ganatra
In this episode of “On The Cusp”, Dr. Brett Gilbert welcomes Dr. Rinesh Ganatra, a former dentist turned mentor and online entrepreneur, to discuss his transformative journey from clinical dentist and multiple practice owner to running a fast-paced online mentorship company.
Dr. Ganatra reflects on the pivotal moments and mentors that propelled his shift from grinding the 20-patient-a-day life, to founding his online business, Dental Practice Mastery. He delves into the emotional and professional upheavals he faced, the courage it took to leave behind a familiar past, and how these experiences interlink with his...
