Welcome back to the show. Today’s episode is a little different—in the best way. We’re hitting pause, looking back, and wrapping up everything we’ve covered this season. The conversations, the lessons, the moments that made us rethink how we do things—and a few that stuck with us long after the mic was off. Whether you’ve been with us since episode one or you’re jumping in right now, this is your chance to catch the highlights, revisit the biggest takeaways, and connect the dots between what we’ve learned and what comes next. We’ll reflect on what surprised us, what challenged us, and what we’re carrying forward into the next chapter of the show. So settle in—this is our season recap, our thank-you, and our bridge to what’s ahead. Episodes mentioned: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/what-every-parent-needs-to-know-about-oral-ties-breathing/id1501753147?i=1000741345178 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/healing-from-the-inside-out-how-airway-health-changes/id1501753147?i=1000732632895 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/from-birth-to-five-giving-every-child-a-strong-start/id1501753147?i=1000725551613 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/5-signs-your-childs-mouth-is-hurting-their-health/id1501753147?i=1000717174931 https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/is-your-child-stuck-in-survival-mode/id1501753147?i=1000712078428

In today’s episode, I’m building on last week’s powerful conversation with Dr. Shireen Lim and diving even deeper into something I’m incredibly passionate about: what every parent should know before their child turns three. This is the information I wish I had known earlier—and honestly, it still blows my mind that we aren’t taught this anywhere. We’re talking about why the “wait and see” approach can be so damaging, how your child’s mouth, airway, brain, and body are developing long before kindergarten, and the subtle red flags most parents are told are “normal.” If you’re pregnant, a new mom, or raising a busy toddler, this episode will completely change the way you look at your child’s breathing, sleep, feeding, and behavior—without fear, guilt, or overwhelm. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Shereen Lim—dentist, sleep medicine expert, myofunctional therapist, and author of Breathe, Sleep, Thrive—to dive deep into what we’re learning about oral ties, airway development, and why early intervention matters so much for our kids. This conversation builds on our previous discussions, but we go even further into the often-overlooked areas of lip ties, cheek (buccal) ties, and how tension patterns in the mouth can shape facial growth, breathing, sleep, and overall health. We talk honestly about what parents should be watching for, why “wait and see” can be risky, and how breathing, feeding, sleep, behavior, reflux, and even cavities are all connected. Dr. Lim also shares powerful clinical stories—from infants to adults—that highlight just how life-changing addressing oral dysfunction can be when we truly look at the whole body. Resources Breathe, Sleep, Thrive by Dr. Shereen Lim Book website: breedsleepthrivebook.com Follow Dr. Shereen Lim on Instagram and Facebook for clinical insights and before-and-after case studies Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic that leaves so many parents saying, “Why has nobody ever told me this?” We’re unpacking myofunctional therapy—what it is, why it matters, when to start, and how it affects everything from your child’s sleep and behavior to their posture, feeding patterns, facial development, and long-term health. If you’ve ever wondered why your child snores, grinds their teeth, wets the bed, struggles to focus, is a picky eater, seems constantly congested, or just feels “off,” this episode is going to help connect the dots. I’m breaking down how the tongue, airway, breathing, chewing, swallowing, and oral rest posture all work together—and why alignment is about far more than just straight teeth. Thank you so much for being here and for showing up for your child’s health. If this episode made you think, helped you connect some dots, or gave you a new perspective, please rate, follow, review, and share the podcast. It helps us reach more families who need this information. Until next time, breathe through your nose and share a smile—because they’re contagious. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode, I’m diving into something that most people — even many professionals — don’t fully understand yet, but once you do, it will completely change the way you see your mouth, your health, your emotions, and even your child’s behavior: the vagus nerve. This incredible “wandering” nerve is the body’s built-in communication system, connecting your brain to your mouth, throat, heart, lungs, digestive tract, and so much more. And yes — it passes right through your mouth, which is why I talk about it so much. If you’ve been seeing anxiety, sleep issues, food aversions, meltdowns, mouth breathing, or constant “behavior problems” with your kids, this episode will give you a whole new lens for understanding what’s really going on inside their bodies. We’ll explore how the vagus nerve gets thrown into fight-or-flight, why so many kids today are chronically dysregulated, and what simple daily habits you can start using to help them (and yourself) feel safe, calm, and connected again. If something you heard made you pause, smile, think differently, or feel empowered, please share this episode with a friend, leave a review, and follow the podcast so we can keep changing lives through this message. Don’t forget to tag us while you’re listening! Until next time — breathe through your nose, speak from your heart, and remember: your body is listening. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In today’s episode, I’m taking you on a heart-opening reflection about something many of us overlook: our kids aren’t just watching us… they’re becoming us. As I share personal stories from my journey as a mom, I explore how our energy, our habits, our self-talk, and even the way we handle stress and joy become the blueprint our kids absorb every single day. This episode is meant to gently nudge you toward awareness—not guilt—so you can create more intentional patterns for yourself and your family.  We dive into the generational cycles we inherit, the ones we pass on without realizing, and the small ways we can shift toward healing and emotional safety. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough or worried about the examples you’re setting, this conversation will remind you that presence—not perfection—is what truly shapes our kids.  Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

If you’ve ever walked out of the dentist’s office wondering how on earth you or your child still managed to get another cavity despite doing everything “right”, this episode is going to give you that “No one ever told me this!” feeling. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on—because cavities are not just about sugar, brushing, or flossing. There is so much more happening beneath the surface, and when you understand it, everything starts to make sense. In this episode, I break down the real root causes behind tooth decay—your oral microbiome, your pH, your breathing habits, hydration, stress, hormones, snacking patterns, sleep, and so much more. You’ll learn why cavities are actually a symptom, not the problem, and what steps you can take starting today to prevent them without shame, fear, or guesswork. If you’ve been confused and frustrated by recurring cavities, this episode is going to empower you with clarity you’ve never been given before. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this heartfelt episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement, I open up about why November holds such deep meaning for me — it’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and healing. From my lifelong love of fall colors and pumpkins to my personal journey as a cancer thriver, I share how the practice of gratitude has transformed my life and helped me move from survival mode into presence and peace. We’ll explore what it truly means to live in gratitude — not just list things we’re thankful for, but to feel it authentically, even in challenging times. I talk about how grounding, journaling, and self-awareness can shift our nervous system, why listening to our bodies matters more than we realize, and how embracing the simple moments can be the most healing practice of all. Thank you for spending time with me today and for being part of this journey. I’m so grateful to be here, to share this space with you, and to celebrate five years cancer-free. Remember — gratitude doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be yours. If this episode touched you, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share The Healthy Mouth Movement. Your support helps spread more smiles and healing energy to others. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

If getting your kids to brush and floss feels like a never-ending battle, you’re not alone! In this episode, I’m sharing a game-changing upgrade to your child’s oral care routine — the brand-new BURST Kids Water Flosser and clinically supported oral probiotics. These products aren’t gimmicks — they’re designed by real dental professionals (many of them moms!) to make oral hygiene easier, more effective, and even fun. You’ll hear why traditional string flossing doesn’t always work for little mouths, how water flossing can help your child build healthy habits, and how oral probiotics support both mouth and immune health. Plus, I’ll share why now — with Black Friday right around the corner — is the perfect time to grab these smile-boosting tools. Links & Resources 🦷 Shop BURST Oral Care: burstoralcare.com 💜 Use code HealthyMouth for exclusive discounts on BURST products 🎁 Look out for special Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals — they sell out fast! Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this heartfelt October episode, I open up about the powerful connection between oral health, overall wellness, and self-healing. As both National Dental Hygiene Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month come to a close, I reflect on my own five-year cancer-free journey and how it taught me that our bodies are not machines—they’re messengers. This isn’t just an episode about brushing, flossing, or routines—it’s about listening to your body, reclaiming your energy, and honoring the small, healing habits that build a healthy, joyful life. Whether you’re a mom balancing it all, a woman rebuilding after illness or burnout, or someone simply seeking more peace and purpose, this conversation is your reminder that your health, happiness, and healing start with you. If this episode made you smile, think, or breathe a little deeper, share it with a mom or friend who needs the reminder that she’s not alone. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the show—it helps us spread this message of healing and hope even further. Until next time, breathe through your nose and share a smile—after all, they’re contagious. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with the inspiring Melissa Mugno, CEO of Faceology, who’s been in the dental field for over 20 years and has made it her mission to bring awareness to airway-focused dentistry. Melissa shares her deeply personal journey—from being a child who struggled with sleep, focus, and self-esteem, to becoming a leader and educator helping parents and professionals understand the critical link between breathing, sleep, and oral health. We dive into how her experiences shaped her purpose, the pivotal “lightbulb moment” that changed her career path, and the lessons she’s learned while helping families navigate the complexities of airway health. This episode is full of honesty, relatable stories, and empowering advice for parents who feel overwhelmed but want to make better choices for their children’s health and development. LINKS: AIR Course: https://melissa-mugno.mykajabi.com/air-certification-course Official website: https://www.melissamugno.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/melissa_the_mouth Faceolgy instagram : https://www.instagram.com/faceologymyo Mind your mouth: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XQlemCSrk22yUjDW5g6Ke?si=LegwPomNQTKGqj8swv02OA Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with nurse practitioner and functional medicine practitioner Andrea Rorabaugh—also known as Annie from Back to Our Roots—for a powerful conversation about getting back to the basics of true health. Andrea shares her personal journey from working in urgent care during the height of COVID to realizing that she wasn’t truly healing patients—only temporarily making them feel better. That realization led her to functional medicine, where she helps families uncover the why behind chronic illness. We dive deep into the connection between genetics, nutrition, and oral health, discussing topics like MTHFR, folate vs. folic acid, heavy metal toxicity, gut health, and how the body’s natural ability to heal starts with small foundational habits. Andrea and I talk about why our children are sicker than ever, what parents can do to support their kids’ bodies naturally, and how oral health and functional medicine beautifully overlap when it comes to true prevention. Links & Resources Andrea’s website: www.b2or.com Instagram: @b2or2024 If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us spread the message that a healthy mouth means a healthy body. Until next time—breathe through your nose and share a smile. After all, they’re contagious. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement, I sit down with Reed Davis, a double board-certified holistic health practitioner, certified nutritional therapist, and the visionary founder of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN). With more than 25 years in the field and over 5,000 practitioners trained worldwide, Reed shares how he pioneered an approach that helps people take charge of their own health through testing, education, and self-directed healing. We dive into Reed’s journey from environmental law to holistic health, how “metabolic chaos” disrupts the body’s systems, and the hidden connections between the mouth, hormones, digestion, and overall wellness. You’ll hear why testing instead of guessing is key, the importance of taking responsibility for your own health, and why true healing starts with understanding the body as a whole. Connect with the guest: Website - https://www.functionaldiagnosticnutrition.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FunctionalDiagnosticNutrition/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fdntraining/ You Tube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xDnEKCe9gKeWZ2vbE3C8w Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/san-diego-natural-health-&-fitness-ctr/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/FDNtraining This conversation reminded me that wellness truly begins from the top down—what we believe, how we breathe, and what we put into our mouths all impact the rest of our body. Don’t guess when it comes to your health—test. When you understand what your body needs, you can make lasting changes that transform how you feel and function. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast. Your feedback helps others discover this show and take the first step toward healthier living—because wellness begins with a smile. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Have you ever asked your child five times to put on their shoes and they still don’t listen? Before you assume defiance, pause. In this episode of the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I dive into the powerful connection between regulation and cooperation—and why your child may not be ignoring you at all. We’ll explore what’s really happening in your child’s body when they seem “defiant,” the role of the vagus nerve as the body’s hidden calm switch, and how the mouth and nervous system are more connected than most providers realize. Plus, I’ll share simple tools and calming exercises you can use at home to help your child move from survival mode back into safety mode, opening the door for true cooperation. Remember—regulation comes before cooperation. The next time your child won’t listen, try pausing, breathing, and supporting their nervous system first. If this episode made you smile, think, or feel inspired, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and don’t forget to follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Have you ever wondered why your child just can’t seem to sit still, focus, or follow directions—no matter how hard they try? In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what’s really going on when kids struggle with restlessness, hyperactivity, or behavior that often gets dismissed as “just a phase.” Spoiler alert—it’s not about being defiant. Instead, it may be your child’s body signaling something deeper, especially when it comes to breathing and sleep. I’ll share my own journey as both a mom and a provider, uncovering the surprising connection between airway health, oxygen, and behavior. From bedwetting and restless nights to emotional meltdowns and focus issues, I’ll explain how these seemingly separate challenges often tie back to sleep and breathing. And most importantly, I’ll give you practical steps and questions you can ask to start connecting the dots for your own child. Remember, when your child can’t sit still, it’s not always about behavior—it could be about breathing. You have the power to be the detective who connects the dots. If this episode opened your eyes or reminded you to trust your instincts, please share it with another mom or caregiver who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast—it helps us reach and support more families just like yours. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Have you ever walked out of a pediatrician’s office or a parent-teacher conference feeling unheard, dismissed, or even a little ashamed for asking questions? You’re not alone—and you’re not wrong for noticing the things you notice about your child. In this episode of The Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I share practical ways to advocate for your child calmly and confidently, even when you feel brushed off by professionals. We’ll talk about why providers and teachers sometimes miss the clues you’re seeing, how to prepare before your next appointment or meeting, and the exact phrases you can use to keep the conversation clear, respectful, and productive. You’ll walk away with tools to help you feel grounded, heard, and empowered as your child’s strongest advocate. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

Birth to five is the most important stage of a child’s life—yet it’s often overlooked in healthcare and education. In this episode of the Healthy Mouth Movement Podcast, I sit down with Ashante Jackson, Regional Council Manager for Birth to Five Illinois, to explore how this statewide initiative is closing gaps in care, building stronger communities, and making sure every child has access to the resources they need. We dive into how Birth to Five Illinois is driven by community voices, why access and awareness are critical for families, and the innovative steps being taken across Illinois to address early childhood needs holistically. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or community advocate, this conversation will open your eyes to the importance of early intervention and remind you that you’re not alone on this journey. Timeline Summary [2:12] – Introducing Birth to Five Illinois and why the early years matter so much [6:45] – How regional offices are tailored to meet the unique needs of each community [12:30] – The importance of access and awareness for families navigating services [18:55] – Tackling behavior and expulsion challenges through social-emotional learning [25:40] – Why community voice is at the heart of every decision Birth to Five Illinois makes [33:10] – Addressing healthcare gaps, food deserts, and housing instability in Illinois [45:22] – How families and stakeholders can get involved through councils and storytelling Links & Resources Birth to Five Illinois: www.birthto5il.com Early Childhood Resource Hub (housed at Oak Lawn Children’s Museum): Oak Lawn Children’s Museum Resource Hub Connect with Ashante Jackson: ajackson@birthto5il.com If this episode inspired you or gave you new insights, please share it with a friend who could benefit. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and review the podcast so we can continue spreading knowledge and resources to families everywhere. And remember—trust your instincts, advocate for your child, and know you’re never alone. Check out The Mind Mouth Body SHIFT Method -- https://shereewertz.com/academy Book a consultation today: I am always here to help answer any question and schedule a 15 minute call with me. If I can not help, I can get you to a provider that can. https://shereewertz.com/15-min

September feels like a second New Year—new routines, new beginnings, and often, new stress. In this episode, we go beyond backpacks and lunchboxes to explore what kids really need as they head back to school: structure, sleep, breathing, and even chewing. Yes, chewing! Discover why this overlooked habit is a powerful developmental tool that impacts focus, behavior, sleep, and emotional regulation. You’ll hear a powerful story of a 6-year-old whose focus, speech, and sleep improved dramatically—just from introducing more chewing and tongue exercises into her routine. We’ll also cover four practical shifts families can make right now to ease the transition into the school year and set kids up for long-term success. Links & Resources Book a free 15-minute call with me → https://shereewertz.com/15-min Learn more about The Shift Method & Founding Membership (lifetime access for $197, use code lifetime) → https://shereewertz.com/academy

Today’s episode is a very personal one—a tribute to my dad on his birthday and a wake-up call for every parent navigating today’s system. My dad’s story is powerful, heartbreaking, and filled with lessons we all need to hear. Through his life and his passing, I’ve come to see how often real symptoms are dismissed, families are brushed off, and opportunities for healing are missed. In this conversation, I share my dad’s journey, what it taught me about listening deeper, and why it’s so important to trust our instincts as parents. We’ll also talk about how our thoughts shape our reality, the way old programming holds us back, and how we can rewire our minds—and our children’s—for a better future. This isn’t just my dad’s story; it’s a message for every parent, every child, and every family who’s ever felt unseen. Links & Resources Book a free 15-minute call with me → https://shereewertz.com/15-min Learn more about The Shift Method & Founding Membership (lifetime access for $197, use code lifetime) → https://shereewertz.com/academy

Have you ever noticed little signs that something might be off with your child—snoring, grinding, meltdowns, bedwetting, food struggles, or emotional overwhelm—and wondered, what do I do next? In this episode, I’m diving deeper into how to respond when you spot these red flags, without rushing to quick fixes or diagnoses. Instead, I’ll show you how to tune in, track what’s happening, and begin making small, intentional shifts that can transform your child’s health and well-being. We’ll talk about why tracking patterns matters, how simple habits like nasal breathing, food swaps, and bedtime routines can create huge changes, and how to see behaviors not as “problems” but as signals from your child’s body and nervous system. If you’ve ever felt brushed off or unsure where to start, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a roadmap for moving forward. I’ve created The Shift Method—a complete roadmap designed to help you understand red flags at every stage of your child’s development (from birth through early childhood). Right now, I’m offering Founding Member Lifetime Access for just $197. Use the code LIFETIME at checkout to lock in this one-time price -- https://shereewertz.com/academy If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another parent who might need to hear it. Don’t forget to rate, follow, and leave a review so we can continue spreading awareness and support. And as always—breathe through your nose and share a smile. Dental Hygiene 411 – Join our community on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/dh411