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

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

Key Topics Discussed:

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

Notable Quotes:

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

Resources & Links:

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

Calls to Action:

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

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

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