The DOC Podcast

DeLuke Orthodontic Coaching, LLC

The DOC Podcast brings you unique educational content taught by Dr. Mike DeLuke, a Board Certified Orthodontist with over 20 years of clinical and academic experience. Dr. DeLuke built his orthodontic practice from scratch in the early 2000s and grew it into a multimillion-dollar enterprise in less than 10 years. He was able to retire from his private practice at the age of 46 years old, and now devotes his energy to teaching his colleagues how to succeed both personally and professionally. He also provides locum tenens coverage for colleagues in South Florida. Dr. DeLuke has served as a faculty member at numerous hospitals and orthodontic residency programs around the country, including as the cleft craniofacial orthodontist at Albany Medical Center in New York, and as a clinical professor at The University of Connecticut in the Department of Orthodontics. He is presently an adjunct professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Healthcare Network and a Visiting Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at Montefiore Einstein Hospital in the Bronx. The DOC Podcast will bring you in-depth discussions and interviews with industry leaders and experts on a variety of topics, including clinical excellence, practice management, finance and wealth creation, health and wellness, taxes and accounting, fitness, and much more!

  1. The Oral-Systemic Connection: Why Dentists Need to Look Beyond the Mouth (w/Dr. Witt Wilkerson) [Ep.164]

    hace 37 min

    The Oral-Systemic Connection: Why Dentists Need to Look Beyond the Mouth (w/Dr. Witt Wilkerson) [Ep.164]

    Summary:In this episode, I sat down with one of the most respected voices in dentistry, Dr. Witt Wilkerson - Director of Dental Medicine at the Dawson Academy and a true pioneer in the intersection of occlusion, TMD, airway, and integrative dental medicine. We had an incredibly rich conversation about the paradigm shift that I believe is transforming our profession: moving away from reactive, tooth-focused treatment and toward a whole-health, root-cause approach. Dr. Wilkerson shares his 44-year journey from treating bruxism purely as a bite problem to recognizing airway and sleep-disordered breathing as primary drivers of dysfunction. We challenged the siloing of dental specialties, made the case for dentistry as oral medicine, and explored the enormous opportunity we all have, dentists and hygienists alike, to screen for and address systemic health issues, including inflammation, blood sugar dysregulation, and sleep disorders. This is a conversation you do not want to miss. Timestamps:0:00 - Welcome0:23 — I introduce Dr. Witt Wilkerson and what we'll cover in today's episode4:46 — Dr. Wilkerson shares his background: joining Dr. Pete Dawson's practice in 1982 and a career built on the question, "Is there a better way?"6:07 — We discuss the segmentalized state of dentistry and medicine, and why the younger generation is finally starting to change that8:33 — The 2009 Baylor article that changed everything for Dr. Wilkerson: the link between sleep apnea, bruxism, and airway12:51 — I ask Dr. Wilkerson about the courage and humility it takes to admit you were wrong, and to update what you've been teaching for decades28:23 — Dr. Wilkerson walks us through the three pillars of Integrative Dental Medicine: inflammation/infection, airway/sleep, and TMD/occlusion29:26 — Why salivary testing should be part of every new patient exam, and what it can tell us about systemic health30:06 — The diabetes-periodontal link we've known about since dental school, and why almost none of us are acting on it30:52 — How continuous glucose monitoring is being used as both a periodontal and whole-health tool in Dr. Wilkerson's practice45:41 — We get into orthodontics and TMD, including the defensive reaction from the ortho community that held the profession back, and what I think the specialty should do instead50:05 — A critical clinical protocol: why you should always study sleep before placing any occlusal appliance on a bruxer54:43 — The adult complex restorative patient: how I believe we should be approaching these cases from a truly interdisciplinary standpoint1:14:16 — The future of treatment sequencing: why airway therapy may need to come first, before any restorative or orthodontic work1:18:15 — How to connect with Dr. Wilkerson, the IDM Scholar Society, and the S3 Workshops Call to Action:If this conversation lit a fire in you the way it did for me, here's what I'd encourage you to do next: Connect with Dr. Witt Wilkerson and learn more about the IDM Scholar Society and his S3 (Sleep, Saliva & Sugar) Workshops at IDMScholarSociety.com, or reach out to him directly at WittWilkersonDMD@gmail.comJoin me and Dr. Daniel Camacho at the Early Orthodontic Treatment Comprehensive Course - a two-day hands-on event, November 13–14 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. We'll cover early airway-focused interceptive treatment, CBCT reading, live patient observation, and so much more. Includes 41 CE hours. Space is limited, so grab your spot at https://www.earlyorthotreatment.com/ Share this episode - If this conversation shifted your perspective on dentistry's role in whole-body health, please pass it along to a colleague. The more dental professionals hear this message, the more patients we can help and the stronger our profession becomes.Join The DOC Community on Facebook for ongoing discussions, resources, and more content like this.  https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/Work with me directly - Head to  theorthocoach.com to access my CE courses or schedule a private one-on-one coaching session.LINKS AAO White Paper Review: https://youtu.be/pKSD_PVO4G0YouTube: @theorthocoachEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comInstagram: @theorthocoach

    1 h 23 min
  2. The Fundamentals of Generational Wealth: Planning, Fiscal Discipline, & Real Estate (w/John Vento Sr.) [Ep.163]

    2 jul

    The Fundamentals of Generational Wealth: Planning, Fiscal Discipline, & Real Estate (w/John Vento Sr.) [Ep.163]

    OVERVIEWMost high-income professionals work incredibly hard, yet wonder why wealth and financial freedom seem just out of reach. The answer, more often than not, isn't about earning more. It's about understanding the fundamentals that turn a good income into lasting wealth. In this episode, Dr. Mike sits down with John Vento Sr., a CPA, financial advisor, and co-author of The Generational Wealth Code, for a conversation that could genuinely change the financial trajectory of your life. John has spent 40 years helping dentists and other professionals build real, lasting wealth, and in this episode, he lays out the exact framework he uses with every client: start with fiscal discipline and margin, know your numbers cold, minimize your tax burden legally, and then deploy your capital strategically through real estate. Whether you're just starting out and trying to dig out from under student loan debt, or you're well into your career and ready to accelerate your wealth-building, this episode gives you a practical roadmap — one built not on hype or shortcuts, but on proven principles that compound over a lifetime and beyond. TIMESTAMPS3:42 — Episode begins; Introduction to the series and The Generational Wealth Code4:25 — Why "Living Within Your Means" is the most important chapter in the book6:45 — Taxes as your #1 lifetime expense; the importance of tax literacy9:22 — Good debt vs. bad debt; how to approach student loan debt as a young professional13:44 — The 20 questions in the book's introduction and using it as a lifelong financial guide15:00 — Knowing your numbers: the statement of net worth and cash flow analysis18:07 — The cost of waiting; why starting early is critical22:47 — Balancing competing goals: student loans, retirement, college savings, and investing25:56 — Retirement planning; the 12-variable financial calculator and setting realistic goals30:21 — Estate planning: wills, trusts, LLCs, and when to start39:20 — The "live for today" mindset; balancing enjoyment and financial responsibility43:22 — Cash flow statements; where your money is really going47:45 — Transitioning to real estate: creating margin to invest50:01 — Why dentists should own their office space; the phantom deduction of depreciation52:47 — LLCs, liability protection, and entity structure for real estate56:55 — Tax benefits of owning real estate through an LLC; SALT workarounds1:00:49 — The One Big Beautiful Bill Act and accelerated depreciation for capital improvements1:03:45 — Cost segregation studies and maximizing depreciation deductions1:09:46 — The value of a financial coach; the importance of an ongoing, intimate client relationship1:14:14 — Leverage in real estate: using other people's money to multiply returns1:17:10 — Equity recycling: pulling out equity to buy more properties and build wealth1:19:28 — Depreciation, step-up in basis, and passing real estate wealth to the next generation1:24:47 — Passive vs. active real estate investors; IRS classifications and what they mean for your taxes1:28:27 — Passive Income Generators (PIGs) and Delaware Statutory Trusts1:30:25 — Preview of the next episode with Christine Vento: 1031 exchanges, Qualified Opportunity Funds, and advanced real estate strategies1:31:17 — Types of 1031 exchanges: simultaneous, delayed, reverse, and construction/improvement1:37:26 — Closing thoughts: tax planning as a year-round chess match against the IRS If this episode got you thinking differently about your financial future, please don't keep it to yourself.  Share it with a colleague, a friend, or anyone in your life who could benefit from hearing this information. The principles John shares here don't just help people save money; they help people build the kind of financial freedom that lasts for generations. The information discussed in this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered individualized financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Please consult your own professional for advice specific to your individual situation. LINKS: Purchase John’s New Book: https://a.co/d/0cye2LquVento Tax & Wealth Mgmt. Website: https://www.vtwmg.com/Joint Episode w/The Vento Family: https://youtu.be/9sEzEto2mAMRegister for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive: https://www.earlyorthotreatment.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/Link to Balance Sheet on DOC Website: theorthocoach.comYouTube: @theorthocoachEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comInstagram: @theorthocoach

    1 h 40 min
  3. The Great Airway Debate: All That's Old is New Again (w/Dr. Duane Grummons) [Ep.162]

    25 jun

    The Great Airway Debate: All That's Old is New Again (w/Dr. Duane Grummons) [Ep.162]

    Overview:In this landmark episode, Dr. Mike sits down with Dr. Duane Grummons - a board-certified orthodontist, educator, and internationally recognized lecturer with over 50 years of clinical experience. Dr. Grummons traces the origins of airway-focused orthodontics from his early training under Ricketts, Bench, and Gugino in the 1970s, through the political and clinical headwinds of the 1990s, to the evidence-based framework he champions today. The conversation covers early facial orthopedics, slow maxillary expansion, mandibular arch development, face mask therapy, cone beam imaging, and the critical importance of treating the whole patient, not just the teeth. Timestamps: 0:00 — Welcome0:23 — Introduction of Dr. Duane Grummons and his 50+ year career in orthodontics3:16 — Dr. Grummons on his clinical history: Ricketts, Bench, Gugino, and learning to think in 3D from day one7:03 — "It's a fad" — addressing the critics of airway orthodontics and why this work is decades old21:03 — The 2026 AAO: only 1 out of 155 lectures addressed early treatment and airway24:44 — Why orthodontists fear lower arch expansion — and why they shouldn't30:57 — Advice for colleagues who want to shift toward earlier, airway-focused care38:26 — Why residency programs are still teaching that mandibular expansion is malpractice47:30 — The science behind slow maxillary expansion and why RPE may be the wrong tool for young kids1:01:22 — "Flying the maxillae": face mask therapy, tip/yaw/roll, and 3D orthopedic planning1:19:32 — CBCT and 3D imaging: why the debate is still happening and why Dr. Grummons can't practice without it1:28:39 — The power of parent testimonials and capturing outcomes on video1:33:59 — Facial descriptors, the hyoid complex, and why diagnosis must go beyond the teeth1:38:36 — Closing thoughts: health span, brain longevity, and rising above the circumstancesSummary:This episode is an essential listen for any clinician serious about comprehensive, patient-centered orthodontic care. Dr. Grummons reminds us that the science has always been there, and that the most powerful thing we can do is go deep on diagnostics, treat early when the face is developing, and never stop learning. LINKS: Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive: https://www.earlyorthotreatment.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/Website: theorthocoach.comYouTube: @theorthocoachEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comInstagram: @theorthocoach

    1 h 41 min
  4. Airway, Wellness, and the Patient-Centered Private Practice (w/Dr. Trevor Nichols) [Ep.161]

    18 jun

    Airway, Wellness, and the Patient-Centered Private Practice (w/Dr. Trevor Nichols) [Ep.161]

    Episode Summary Dr. Trevor Nichols returns to The Doc Podcast for his second appearance, and a lot has changed. Since opening Nichols Orthodontics and Aesthetics in Gilbert, Arizona, in August 2024, Trevor has grown from a two-person operation to a team of 20, with a waitlist. In this rich conversation, Dr. Mike and Dr. Nichols cover the full journey: the leap from corporate/DSO orthodontics to private practice ownership, the vision and systems that fuel their growth, the personal wellness habits that keep them grounded, and, most passionately, the case for early airway-focused, craniofacial orthodontic treatment. This episode is a must-listen for any orthodontist, dentist, or healthcare professional who wants to treat the whole patient, not just the teeth. Timestamps 3:29 — Welcome back: Dr. Nichols returns to the show after ~2 years4:33 — "Probably the best two years of my life" — Dr. Nichols reflects on opening his practice5:27 — Starting with just two people, leasing space from a general dentist6:29 — "Fight for your dreams" — the case for private practice ownership6:53 — Why private practice better protects patients and the profession vs. corporate/DSO models22:03 — Building the vision: how to define what orthodontics truly fulfills you23:29 — "Do a true audit of what in orthodontics brings you happiness"29:34 — The three pillars of Nichols Orthodontics: patient experience, culture, and results40:24 — Why Dr. Nichols hired a CEO (formerly at Crumbl Cookies) to run the business side50:44 — Balancing plates: weekly date nights, gratitude practices, and intentional reflection57:32 — Shifting to the clinical: why diagnosis is what separates orthodontists from OTC aligners1:00:57 — "We're not just orthodontists — we're craniofacial orthopedists"1:02:58 — "I don't really care about the teeth right now" — diagnosing profile, growth, and airway first1:11:06 — Treating 3- and 4-year-olds: when early intervention is warranted and how to screen for it1:17:44 — 45% of Nichols Orthodontics' practice is now airway-focused treatment1:27:43 — The key to phase one braces success: bond ALL the primary teeth + disarticulate1:29:00 — The tongue as nature's expander: ~400g of force at swallow — why we don't need more1:37:18 — "Early adopters take the most scrutiny — and then we find out they were right all along" LINKS Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive ($1000 off if register by June 30): https://www.earlyorthotreatment.com/ Episode 50 w/Dr. Nichols: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-living-your-purpose-w-dr-trevor-nichols-ep-50/id1689703392?i=1000655038062Connect w/Dr. Nichols: https://www.nicholsortho.com/?utm_source=GBPInstagram: @dr.trevornicholsJoin 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/Enroll in one-on-one coaching w/Dr. Mike: https://theorthocoach.com/doc-coaching/ If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to share it with a colleague, friend, or fellow healthcare professional who would benefit from hearing it. Word of mouth is the single most powerful way to grow this community and spread this message. Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify; it makes a huge difference! And if you haven't already, subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Doc Podcast. Thank you for your support!  Together, we're changing lives, one conversation at a time.

    1 h 39 min
  5. More Than The Mouth: Dentistry's Role in Total Health (w/Dr. Staci Whitman)

    11 jun

    More Than The Mouth: Dentistry's Role in Total Health (w/Dr. Staci Whitman)

    Episode Summary In this powerful episode, Dr. Mike sits down with Dr. Staci Whitman, a board-certified pediatric dentist, functional and naturopathic dentistry expert, and one of the only dentists in the world certified by the Institute of Functional Medicine. Dr. Staci shares her remarkable journey from nearly leaving the profession entirely to becoming a trailblazer in functional pediatric dentistry. Together, they dive deep into the critical connections between oral health and whole-body health, exposing the gaps in traditional dental education and offering a roadmap for how dentists and patients can do better. Show Notes 0:00 — Introduction & welcome1:49 — Topics covered today: fluoride, oral-gut microbiome, airway health, burnout, and more3:33 — Dr. Staci's journey: from a childhood dental trauma to nearly quitting the profession5:47 — "I almost left dentistry" — how debt kept her in and what ultimately changed6:57 — The pivot to pediatrics and a root-cause, upstream approach15:36 — Her three diagnostic priorities: nutrition, gut health, and airway (not the teeth)16:11 — "We don't have dental physicians" — connecting the mouth to the whole body33:12 — The fluoride debate: how Dr. Staci went from advocate to skeptic37:06 — Fluoride works topically, not systemically — what the science actually says56:06 — The oral microbiome: nitric oxide, the oral-gut axis, and why it matters57:02 — "You cannot have a healthy patient without a healthy gut"58:00 — Oral microbiome testing: options, tools, and why it should be standard of care1:05:46 — Top action step #1: nutrition and reducing snacking frequency1:07:40 — Top action step #2: hydration, saliva, and minerals1:08:02 — Top action step #3: airway and the dangers of mouth breathing Resources & Links Mentioned: Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive ($1000 off if register by June 30): https://www.earlyorthotreatment.com/ Oral microbiome testing resources: https://www.viome.com/products/oral-health-intelligence; https://www.bristlehealth.com/Cochrane Review on Fluoride (2024): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39362658/The Institute for Functional Dentistry: https://functionaldentistry.com/Episode with Beth Lambert: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whats-causing-the-chronic-disease-epidemic-in-our/id1689703392?i=1000716655495Connect with Dr. Staci: https://doctorstaci.com/Dr. Staci on Instagram: @doctor_staciConnect with Dr. Mike: theorthocoach.comDr. Mike on Instagram: @theorthocoachEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comJoin the DOC Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Cb9rkQVde/The health of our patients and our profession depends on dentists willing to think differently. Please share this episode with a colleague or fellow parent who needs to hear it!

    1 h 15 min
  6. Real Estate, Taxes, & The Power of Planning: Inside the Generational Wealth Code (w/The Vento Family)

    4 jun

    Real Estate, Taxes, & The Power of Planning: Inside the Generational Wealth Code (w/The Vento Family)

    Episode Summary Dr. Mike welcomes a powerhouse family of financial professionals to The DOC Podcast: John Vento Sr., his daughters Christine Vento and Nicole Vento, and his son John Vento Jr. Together, they discuss their brand-new book, The Generational Wealth Code, and share decades of expertise in tax planning, real estate investing, and wealth management. John Sr. traces his journey from doing his first tax return in his parents' Brooklyn basement in 1985 to building a comprehensive wealth management firm. Each of his three children - all CPAs and securities-licensed - shares how they found their own specialties: Christine in 1031 exchange real estate solutions and Delaware Statutory Trusts, Nicole in tax-smart investment management and financial planning, and John Jr. in dental CPA and proactive tax strategy.  The conversation spans the importance of year-end tax planning (not April 15th), the power of passive real estate income, how to raise financially literate children, and why paying for expert financial advice is an investment, not a cost. This is the first of a five-part series with the Vento family, with each member returning for a dedicated solo episode. Timestamps 0:00 – Introduction & welcome to the Vento family2:01 – Overview of *The Generational Wealth Code* and the five-part series3:09 – Guests introduce themselves5:04 – John Sr.'s background: From Brooklyn basement to building his own firm (1985)6:03 – John Sr. on leaving KPMG and why he added a securities license to his CPA practice9:20 – Christine's background: From KPMG deal advisory to real estate and 1031 exchanges10:48 – Christine explains 1031 exchanges and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs)14:47 – Nicole's background: Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and returning to the family practice20:53 – John Jr.'s background: Working in the firm as a teenager, Pricewaterhouse, and becoming managing partner27:09 – Why year-end tax planning matters: "Once December 31st passes, there's nothing you can do"30:02 – The origin story of John Sr.'s first book, *Financial Independence: Getting to Point X*32:04 – What's new in *The Generational Wealth Code* and the impact of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act38:37 – John Sr.: "Financial literacy should be required in every high school"1:07:32 – John Jr.: "Almost every decision in life has a tax consequence" — preview of his solo episode1:12:39 – Book release date, where to buy, and how to contact the Vento family firm Resources & Links The Generational Wealth Code – Available June 9th on Amazon and Barnes & Noble (pre-order now): https://a.co/d/0iHwEITGhttps://www.ventotaxandwealth.com/ Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive: https://www.earlyorthotreatment.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/Website: theorthocoach.comYouTube: @theorthocoachEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comInstagram: @theorthocoach

    1 h 16 min
  7. Should 3D/CBCT Imaging be the Standard of Care in Orthodontics? (w/Dr. Dania Tamimi) [Ep.158]

    28 may

    Should 3D/CBCT Imaging be the Standard of Care in Orthodontics? (w/Dr. Dania Tamimi) [Ep.158]

    In this episode of The DOC Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Dania Tamimi, an oral and maxillofacial radiologist, Harvard-trained dental educator, and holistic health advocate, for a wide-ranging conversation on why diagnosis must come first in dentistry, and why 3D CBCT imaging is no longer optional for orthodontists who want to truly serve their patients. Dr. Tamimi brings a uniquely multidisciplinary perspective, weaving together radiology, yoga therapy, kinesiology, and craniofacial anatomy to make the case that the mouth and the airway cannot be treated in isolation. Together, we challenge the "tooth straightener" mindset still dominant in orthodontics, break down the science of nasal breathing and its profound impact on facial development, and take a critical look at recent AAO position statements on airway and CBCT. Whether you're a seasoned clinician, a young provider, or a curious parent, this episode will change the way you think about dental imaging, airway, and what it means to truly diagnose. Timestamps:0:00 — Introduction & Meet Dr. Dania Tamimi4:01 — Dr. Tamimi's background: oral & maxillofacial radiology explained4:46 — A parallel career in fitness and why it matters for TMJ6:55 — "It's all connected" - the TMJ, airway, and the whole body10:01 — Dr. Mike's airway awakening: how getting a CBCT in 2014 changed everything12:37 — Why we image: diagnosis is the single most important step18:38 — CT vs. CBCT: what's the actual difference and why does it matter?21:58 — Cone beam CT explained: lower dose, dental-specific, and what it can (and can't) show25:52 — Why is 3D CBCT adoption still debated in orthodontics?30:09 — Fear, comfort zones, and the cost of not knowing36:07 — "Knowledge gives you power, fear takes it away"38:59 — "I don't want to be responsible for what's on the scan" - the liability fear no one talks about44:07 — Should orthodontists rename themselves craniofacial orthopedists?52:00 — No such thing as a routine X-ray: why clinical exam must come first1:13:34 — The science of nasal breathing: nitric oxide, filtration, and why mouth breathing changes your face1:14:35 — How mouth breathing narrows jaws, crowds teeth, and displaces the tongue into the airway1:19:01 — Challenging the AAO white paper: "No craniofacial phenotypes can identify airway problems"?1:23:25 — Can orthodontists read their own scans? How to know when to refer LINKS Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive:https://www.earlyorthotreatment.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/Enroll in one-on-one coaching w/Dr. Mike: https://theorthocoach.com/doc-coaching/ Link to Dr. Mike’s review of the AAO White Paper Update on SDB: https://youtu.be/pKSD_PVO4G0?si=CSxQy4V6tZoe551t Dr. Tamimi TEDx talk: https://youtu.be/zlYuHwqrsPo?si=30NiJu_UiuPeKRlX Contact Dr. Tamimi: https://inspire-imaging.com/

    1 h 29 min
  8. Rethinking When, Why, & How We Treat Patients (w/Dr. Mike DePascale) [Ep.157]

    21 may

    Rethinking When, Why, & How We Treat Patients (w/Dr. Mike DePascale) [Ep.157]

    Episode Summary Dr. Mike DePascale is a Connecticut-based orthodontist and co-owner of a multi-location practice with his partner and mentor, Dr. Jeff Kozlowski. In this episode, Dr. DePascale shares his remarkable personal journey from suffering severe obstructive sleep apnea in his early 20s and undergoing orthognathic surgery to becoming a passionate advocate for airway-focused, early-interceptive orthodontic care. The conversation covers the philosophy behind their thriving partnership, why airway is still woefully undertaught in residency programs, how to practically integrate early airway-focused treatment into a busy practice, the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration, and what it takes to maintain peak fitness while building a career and a family. This is a conversation about so much more than teeth, it's about breathing, thriving, and never settling. Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction to The DOC Podcast and Dr. Mike DePascale10:57 — Dr. DePascale's origin story: cold-calling medical offices to find his path12:30 — Diagnosed with severe sleep apnea in his 20s: 3 car accidents, 2–4 hours of sleep a night15:30 — Choosing orthognathic surgery over CPAP — and how it saved his life19:00 — Finding Dr. Jeff Kozlowski: choosing mentorship over immediate money24:00 — What makes a practice partnership actually work: communication, consistency, and commitment33:00 — Residency training: what it prepared him for — and what it didn't38:00 — Why airway is barely taught in orthodontic residencies (and what needs to change)45:00 — The 1968 Salzman Index, Medicaid, and how the system trains orthodontists to pull teeth instead of treat early53:00 — How to practically integrate airway screening into a busy multi-doc practice58:00 — Team training, sleep questionnaires, and the power of interdisciplinary referral networks63:00 — The emotional reality: a mom crying after finally hearing "tongue tie" for the first time after 5 specialists68:00 — How early is too early? Dr. DePascale's own son: frenectomy at weeks old, T&A at age 275:00 — Why orthodontists are uniquely positioned — and obligated — to lead in the airway space80:00 — Fitness as a non-negotiable: from not finishing a mile to running a 4:53, and why he never gets out of it Links Register for the In-person Early Treatment Comprehensive: https://www.earlyorthotreatment.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/Website: theorthocoach.comEmail: drmike@theorthocoach.comInstagram: @theorthocoachThank you for your support of The DOC Podcast, and please share the show with others who may benefit from hearing this conversation!

    1 h 29 min
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The DOC Podcast brings you unique educational content taught by Dr. Mike DeLuke, a Board Certified Orthodontist with over 20 years of clinical and academic experience. Dr. DeLuke built his orthodontic practice from scratch in the early 2000s and grew it into a multimillion-dollar enterprise in less than 10 years. He was able to retire from his private practice at the age of 46 years old, and now devotes his energy to teaching his colleagues how to succeed both personally and professionally. He also provides locum tenens coverage for colleagues in South Florida. Dr. DeLuke has served as a faculty member at numerous hospitals and orthodontic residency programs around the country, including as the cleft craniofacial orthodontist at Albany Medical Center in New York, and as a clinical professor at The University of Connecticut in the Department of Orthodontics. He is presently an adjunct professor in the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at Healthcare Network and a Visiting Professor in the Department of Orthodontics at Montefiore Einstein Hospital in the Bronx. The DOC Podcast will bring you in-depth discussions and interviews with industry leaders and experts on a variety of topics, including clinical excellence, practice management, finance and wealth creation, health and wellness, taxes and accounting, fitness, and much more!

Información

  • Creador
    DeLuke Orthodontic Coaching, LLC
  • Años de actividad
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodios
    165
  • Clasificación
    Apto
  • Copyright
    © 2026 DeLuke Orthodontic Coaching, LLC
  • Mostrar sitio web
    The DOC Podcast

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