Podcast
GC Orthodontics Exchange
Hosted by GC Orthodontics · ENGLISH
A Podcast designed to provide the Orthodontic Profession with a conversational platform from industry peers on how to balance the rapid advances in technology with the mechanics of tooth movement. Take away practical operational advice that will maximize chair share profitability. Transition treatment time measurement from months and visits to hours spent in the chair. Balance is not a luxury—it’s the foundation of success.
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How an Engineer Approaches Ortho with Dr. Michael Pickard
3w ago00:31:30Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange, host Dr. Antonino Secchi sits down with Dr. Michael Pickard, a Canadian-born orthodontist practicing across three locations on the Washington-Idaho border, for a candid conversation about an unconventional path to orthodontics and the clinical philosophy he's built along the way. Dr. Pickard's journey took him from building roads and competing as a U.S. ballroom dance champion, to a career in petroleum engineering at Exxon, before ultimately finding his way to dental school at UCLA and orthodontic training at Baylor. That engineering mindset never left, and it shows in how he approaches clinical work. Key highlights from this episode: • Why Dr. Pickard chose self-ligating brackets from the start and has never looked back, including his wire sequencing philosophy and how he thinks about torque control • His approach to blending braces and aligners in the same treatment plan, and why that flexibility has opened doors for patients who once said "no" to braces • How efficiency in orthodontics isn't about speed. It's about quality, smart scheduling, and empowering your team • The case for (and against) indirect bonding, and how working with models made him a sharper bracket positioner • Building a three-location practice while protecting work-life balance in a tight-knit university community Dr. Pickard's story is a reminder that the road to orthodontics looks different for everyone, and that a commitment to quality, whether you're building roads or straightening teeth, makes all the difference.
Transcribe →The Case for Going Digital with Dr. Bryn Cooper
Apr 800:26:38Tap to summarizeDr. Bryn Cooper is back for her second appearance on the GC Orthodontics Exchange. The Houston-based orthodontist, who opened her practice over a decade ago plasterless, paperless, and fully digital, joins host Michael Wilgus for a deeper dive into the world of digital orthodontics. In this episode, Dr. Cooper shares her journey from beta-testing 3D printers before the competition existed to running two fully digital practice locations today. She breaks down the clinical realities of indirect bonding and aligners, where each modality shines, and what she's learned from using seven different jig systems throughout her career. Dr. Cooper also tackles the "efficiency" conversation head-on — pushing back on the idea that reducing appointments is the whole story, and making the case that patient experience has to be part of the equation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Dr. Cooper went 100% digital from day one and what that looked like before the technology caught up The real difference between planning in a digital environment vs. placing brackets chairside Where aligners fall short and when braces deliver more predictable results How to think about efficiency beyond just chair time and appointment reduction Whether you're just beginning to explore digital workflows or looking to refine your existing approach, this conversation is packed with honest, practical insights from a clinician who's been doing it longer than most. And if you haven't caught Dr. Cooper's first episode yet, make sure to go back and give it a listen!
Transcribe →Finding Your Path in Ortho with Drs. Middleton & Neely
Mar 1100:24:33Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange, host Dr. Antonino Secchi sits down with two Illinois-based orthodontists, Dr. Bethany Middleton and Dr. Alison Neely, who share a practice and a passion for their work. From winding career paths to clinical philosophy, this conversation is packed with insight for orthodontists at every stage. In this episode, Drs. Middleton and Neely share: • Origin Stories: How both doctors made the leap from general dentistry to orthodontics, and the personal sacrifices that made it possible. • Practice partnership: How Drs. Middleton and Neely found each other and built a multi-doctor, two-location practice in Springfield, Illinois. • Work-life balance: Why orthodontics offers a unique lifestyle advantage and how that shapes career decisions. • Clinical philosophy: Their experience transitioning to the CCO System bracket prescription and their standardized wire sequence approach. • DSO vs. private practice: Honest advice for new graduates navigating a challenging financial landscape. • Life outside the office: Travel adventures, hobbies, and what keeps them grounded beyond the clinic. Whether you're a new grad weighing your career options or an experienced clinician curious about the CCO System, this episode offers a candid and inspiring look at life in orthodontics.
Transcribe →Starting Over on Purpose with Dr. Shari Wolsky
Feb 1100:20:54Tap to summarizeWhat happens when you sell a successful orthodontic practice and decide to start over somewhere new? In this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange podcast, host Dr. Antonino Secchi talks with Dr. Shari Wolsky about her journey from building a thriving practice in Ohio to relocating, rebuilding, and redefining success in Colorado. In this conversation, Dr. Wolsky shares: • How an unexpected opportunity led to a major career move • The realities of selling a practice and starting again • Lessons learned from consultants, staffing, and practice finances • How aligners, technology, and longer appointment intervals changed her workflow • Why private practice still offers unmatched flexibility, especially for women in orthodontics • Advice for residents and early-career orthodontists choosing between DSOs and ownership Whether you're a resident contemplating your first position, an associate considering ownership, or an established orthodontist thinking about a fresh start, Dr. Wolsky's journey offers practical wisdom and encouragement to take the leap. This episode is an honest, encouraging look at growth, risk, and creating a practice that supports both your career and your life.
Transcribe →From Residency to Practice Owner with Dr. Bryn Cooper
Nov 1900:28:37Tap to summarizeJoin host Michael Wilgus, Regional Sales Manager for GC Orthodontics, as he sits down with Dr. Bryn Cooper, a Houston-based orthodontist, for an inspiring conversation about navigating the modern path to practice ownership. In this episode, Dr. Cooper shares her unique journey, from secretly taking the DAT as an economics major to opening her own scratch start practice just months out of residency. She candidly discusses the challenges of being a female orthodontist in a male-dominated field, the realities of working for a DSO as a stepping stone, and the vulnerabilities of leadership that nobody prepares you for in dental school. Key Topics Discussed: - Why Dr. Cooper chose orthodontics (hint: it wasn't just because of her orthodontist grandfather) - The changing landscape of DSOs and OSOs for new graduates - Navigating gender dynamics and expectations as a female practice owner - The myth of work-life balance and finding what truly matters - Building a practice from scratch with limited business experience - Leadership lessons learned the hard way Whether you're a resident preparing to graduate, an associate considering ownership, or an established orthodontist reflecting on your journey, Dr. Cooper's honest insights and practical wisdom will resonate with you.
Transcribe →CCO SYSTEM Success in Latin America with Dr. Ana Boetsch
Oct 100:27:15Tap to summarizeJoin Dr. Antonino Secchi in this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange Podcast as he sits down with Dr. Ana Boetsch, a leading orthodontist from Mendoza, Argentina, and professor at the University of Mendoza. Dr. Boetsch shares her 30-year journey in orthodontics and her transformative experience with the CCO SYSTEM, which has enabled her to reduce treatment times from 24+ months down to 12-18 months. She discusses why investing in quality brackets and wires proves more cost-effective than cheaper alternatives and offers her perspective on the current state of orthodontics across Latin America. The conversation covers the balance between traditional braces and aligners, technology integration, and the importance of proper diagnosis. As an experienced educator, Dr. Boetsch also shares insights about teaching today's technology-driven orthodontic students. This episode is perfect for orthodontists, dental students, and professionals interested in modern orthodontic techniques and practice management.
Transcribe →Dr. Shalin Shah on Life, Lessons, and Orthodontics
Sep 300:30:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange, Dr. Antonino Secchi sits down with his longtime friend and colleague, Dr. Shalin Shah. From starting his practice in a renovated potato barn to adopting the CCO SYSTEM, Dr. Shah offers practical insights into simplifying treatment, avoiding decision fatigue, and empowering teams through clear, consistent systems. The discussion also dives into the future of orthodontics including AI, aligners vs. fixed appliances, and the importance of mentorship for the next generation. Beyond orthodontics, Dr. Shah talks about living life to the fullest, making meaningful connections, and always pushing the limits...like the time he jumped out of a helicopter on his snowboard! Tune in for a blend of clinical wisdom, personal inspiration, and a vision for the future of orthodontics.
Transcribe →Dr. Larry Wang on Leadership, Innovation & the Future of Orthodontics
Aug 1300:30:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of the GC Orthodontics Exchange, we sit down with Dr. Larry Wang of the Baltimore Orthodontic Group. From his early days in orthodontics to his recent appointment as the MASO Trustee for the AAO, Dr. Wang shares insights on leadership, mentorship, evolving technology, and the importance of maintaining patient care at the core of everything we do. We also dive into how Baltimore Orthodontic Group weathered the COVID storm, how they’re adapting with aligners and remote monitoring, and what he sees on the horizon for orthodontics. Don’t miss this engaging and insightful conversation!
Transcribe →What You Can't See Can Hurt You: Dr. Francisco Eraso on Root Visibility, Treatment Planning and Smarter Orthodontics
Jul 2300:31:59Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Francisco Eraso sits down with Dr. Antonino Secchi and shares a refreshingly practical take on orthodontic treatment planning. Whether it's aligners or brackets and wires, Dr. Eraso emphasizes one core principle: don't treat what you can't see. He talks about the value of software that lets you visualize the entire tooth, including the roots, and why that matters more than ever in today’s digital workflows. From choosing the right appliance to building clinical confidence, this episode is packed with guidance for everyday treatment decisions. 🔎 Topics include: – Aligners vs. brackets: how to choose what’s best for each case – The critical role of CBCT and root visualization – Why the “why” behind the movement matters – Empowering teams to own the process – What new doctors need to succeed with aligners Whether you’re early in your career or looking to sharpen your aligner strategy, Dr. Eraso brings experience, clarity, and clinical wisdom to the conversation.
Transcribe →From Start-Up to Smile Empire: Dr. Amanda Gallagher on Growth, Grit & the Future of Ortho
Jul 200:29:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of GC Orthodontics Exchange, Patrick O'Shea sits down with powerhouse orthodontist, Dr. Amanda Gallagher to explore how she scaled from a modest start above a psychic's office to five thriving locations across Baltimore. They dive into business partnerships, blending motherhood with entrepreneurship, integrating aesthetics into orthodontics, and what it means to be a female leader in a still male-dominated industry. It's real, it's inspiring, and it's packed with insight you don't want to miss.
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