In this episode of the Tongue Tie Experts Podcast, I’m joined by Sarah Hornsby, dental hygienist, educator, entrepreneur, and one of the early pioneers in bringing myofunctional therapy into modern interdisciplinary care.

Sarah shares how her clinical curiosity led her from traditional dental hygiene into the world of oral function, airway health, and ultimately the creation of an online training program that has educated more than 2,000 providers worldwide.

We talk about what happens when professionals step outside their silos, why function must be part of the conversation when we discuss tongue tie, and how collaboration between lactation, dentistry, therapy, and airway-focused providers changes outcomes for families.

We also discuss the realities of building something new - the uncertainty, the persistence, and the deep belief that better care is possible when we learn together.

This is a conversation about growth - clinically, professionally, and as a community.

1. How Sarah’s career evolved from dental hygiene into myofunctional therapy
2. Why oral function and airway development must be part of tongue-tie conversations
3. The importance of true interdisciplinary collaboration
4. How online education expanded access to this work globally
5. The challenges (and rewards) of building a new clinical pathway
6. Creating professional community instead of practicing in isolation
7. Where myofunctional therapy is headed as awareness grows

More about Sarah Hornsby:

MyoMentor 12-Week Course enrollment.

https://www.sarahkhornsby.com/ LISAP10 for a 10% discount

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

This podcast is meant for education and conversation only. It is not medical advice and does not replace formal education, professional training, or individualized care from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek appropriate guidance for individual concerns. The views and opinions shared by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or Tongue-tie experts.

In this episode, host Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC addresses a growing concern in the tongue tie and breastfeeding community: unproven claims about preventing tongue tie. With compassion for families and commitment to evidence-based care, Lisa discusses:

• How unverified social media claims can unintentionally turn into perceived “facts”

• Why ambiguous or absolute prevention messaging can lead to shame and blame for parents

• The difference between empowerment and guilt-based health messages

• A respectful, evidence-informed reframe of how we talk about risk, optimization, and biology

This episode is for clinicians, parents, and anyone who wants to understand how to navigate health conversations with integrity.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

This podcast is meant for education and conversation only. It is not medical advice and does not replace formal education, professional training, or individualized care from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek appropriate guidance for individual concerns. The views and opinions shared by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or Tongue-tie experts.

In this energizing episode of the Tongue Tie Experts Podcast, host Lisa Paladino sits down with Jessica Altemara for an inspiring conversation about ICAP (International Consortium of Ankyloglossia Professionals) and the upcoming conference.

With genuine excitement and deep respect for the work being done, Lisa and Jessica share the story of how ICAP has grown into a leading organization in the tongue tie and infant feeding space, bringing together professionals across lactation, dentistry, medicine, and therapy.

Throughout the episode, Jessica’s passion and dedication to ICAP shine as she describes what makes this conference truly different - its powerful sense of community, commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on, interactive workshops, and an expanding focus on research and evidence-informed practice.

They reflect on ICAP’s journey from a small, new nonprofit into an established professional home for those supporting families with ankyloglossia, breastfeeding challenges, and oral function concerns.

Listeners will hear what to expect from the upcoming hybrid ICAP conference in April, 2026, why so many professionals return year after year, and how being part of the ICAP community supports not only clinical excellence, but also meaningful connection, confidence, and professional growth.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

🔹Professional’s Guide to Tongue Tie : https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/Professional

🔹The Confident IBCLC https://tonguetieexperts.net/confidentibclc

🔹April, 2026 ICAP Conference: https://icapprofessionals.com/conference/

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

This podcast is meant for education and conversation only. It is not medical advice and does not replace formal education, professional training, or individualized care from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek appropriate guidance for individual concerns. The views and opinions shared by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or Tongue-tie experts.

In this episode, Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC, explores the complex, and often controversial, challenges that lactation consultants face when assessing and managing tongue tie in infants. From inconsistent training and ambiguous assessments to provider disagreements and family pressures, Lisa breaks down the barriers to effective care and offers actionable strategies to overcome them.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Inconsistent Training & Guidelines: Education on tongue tie varies widely, leaving many professionals with limited or conflicting knowledge. Lisa stresses the need for specialized, evidence-based continuing education and peer collaboration to build confidence and competence.
2. Challenges in Assessment: Accurate diagnosis requires more than a visual check - functional assessment is key. Lisa highlights the importance of understanding oral mechanics and using supportive and proven assessment tools.
3. Interprofessional Disagreements: Differing views among health care providers can confuse families and complicate care. Lisa advocates for respectful, evidence-informed communication and building a trusted referral network.
4. Parental Pressure for Immediate Answers: Families often seek quick fixes amidst feeding struggles. Lisa emphasizes the value of compassionate education, managing expectations, and offering follow-up support.
5. Limited Access to Qualified Providers: A shortage of experienced tongue tie professionals can hinder timely treatment. Lisa encourages exploring virtual consults, maintaining referral lists, and advocating for increased local training.

Takeaway:

Navigating tongue tie assessment and treatment is both controversial and challenging—but with the right tools, education, and collaboration, lactation consultants can support families more effectively and confidently.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

🔹Professional’s Guide to Tongue Tie : https://www.tonguetieexperts.net/Professional

🔹ICAP: https://icapprofessionals.com/

Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

Mentioned in this episode:

OI Tape

In this thought-provoking episode of the Tongue Tie Experts podcast, host Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC, is joined by Olena Dobchansky, a clinician, educator, and leader in maternal and child health. With decades of experience guiding families and supporting nurses, Olena offers a grounded, compassionate, and deeply informed perspective on the current landscape of infant feeding and postpartum care.

Together, Lisa and Olena explore how maternal-child health has evolved within traditional medical systems, and what has been lost along the way. They discuss the commercialization of breastfeeding support, how language shapes our understanding of infant feeding, and why individualized, relationship-centered care matters.

Key Topics Discussed

• Olena’s journey in nursing and leadership in maternal & child health
• How nursing theory has shifted, and what clinicians are still missing
• The difference between “breastfeeding” and “lactation”: words that matter
• Challenges created by corporate healthcare systems
• The rise of commodified feeding solutions and the “quick fix” mindset
• Building health literacy and informed decision-making in families
• How social media influences parents’ feeding choices, stress, and identity
• The role of family dynamics and support networks in feeding success
• Why understanding the lived experience of each mother is essential to care
• The call to return to personalized, respectful, and holistic support

• Breastfeeding is not simply a biological act; it’s relational, emotional, and deeply contextual.
• Healthcare systems often prioritize efficiency over connection—yet connection is where healing and confidence emerge.
• Families need more than instructions, they need clarity, support, and validation.
• Professionals must listen not just to symptoms, but to stories.

Olena Dobchansky is a clinician, educator, and advocate in maternal and child health. Her work centers on empowering families and elevating the role of nurses and lactation professionals in supporting holistic, evidence-informed, compassionate care.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

Mentioned in this episode:

OI Tape

In this episode of Tongue Tie Experts, IBCLC and Certified Nurse Midwife Lisa Paladino shares two real-life case studies that uncover the most common - and most misunderstood - breastfeeding challenges. Learn how to recognize the signs of tongue tie, why maternal pain should never be ignored, and what truly needs to happen before and after a tongue tie release to ensure optimal results.

Lisa breaks down the importance of a full feeding assessment, explains why babies often compensate during breastfeeding, and highlights how preparation, aftercare, and collaborative support can transform outcomes.

Whether you're a lactation professional, a healthcare provider, or a parent seeking answers, this episode offers practical insights and evidence-informed guidance to help families navigate tongue tie and breastfeeding with confidence.

• Maternal experience matters. A parent’s pain, intuition, and observations are essential clinical clues that should always be taken seriously.
• Breastfeeding pain is not normal. Persistent discomfort signals that something in the feeding relationship needs attention.
• Babies often compensate for feeding difficulties. These compensations can mask underlying issues while contributing to maternal pain and inefficient feeding.
• Tongue tie is only one piece of the puzzle. Breastfeeding challenges are multifactorial and require a full, holistic assessment of the dyad.
• Proper preparation leads to better tongue tie release outcomes. Pre-release guidance, expectations, and support make a significant difference.
• Post-release care is essential. Coordinated follow-up, including lactation support and potential bodywork, can improve function and comfort.
• Comprehensive support helps families thrive. Parents need accurate education, accessible resources, and a skilled team to feel confident in their breastfeeding journey.
• Every mother and baby deserve individualized care. Thoughtful, evidence-informed support leads to better outcomes and more positive breastfeeding experiences.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

Mentioned in this episode:

OI Tape

In this episode, Dr. Brian Hatch shares his journey into pediatric dentistry and his focus on oral ties. He discusses the importance of recognizing educational gaps, the value of collaborative care teams, and why assessing oral function is essential before recommending treatment. Dr. Hatch emphasizes the ripple effects of untreated oral ties on overall health and advocates for individualized, patient-centered care.

• Oral ties can affect feeding, speech, and airway health.
• Not all ties are restrictive or require surgery - therapy may be beneficial.
• Collaboration among healthcare professionals is essential for optimal outcomes.
• Assessing function before treatment helps guide appropriate care.
• Education and continued learning are crucial for both providers and parents.
• Individualized care addresses each patient’s unique needs and supports long-term health.

Dr. Brian Hatch is a board-certified pediatric dentist, passionate about improving oral function and overall well-being for patients of all ages. Over the last several years, he has developed a focused expertise in oral ties and their impact on oral function, speech, feeding, and airway health.

You can find him here: oraltiecenter.com

Special thanks to our episode sponsor - OI Tape. Check them out at OITape.com and use coupon code TONGUETIE20 to save 20% off all products.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.

Mentioned in this episode:

OI Tape

In this episode of the Tongue Tie Experts Podcast, host Lisa Paladino, CNM, IBCLC, speaks with Natalia Nordstrom and Lauren Lapointe, about how something as simple as mouth taping can make a big difference in sleep quality, health, and overall well-being.

Natalia and Lauren share their personal paths into the world of breathwork and holistic wellness, explaining how nasal breathing supports better rest, reduces snoring, and may even play a role in managing sleep apnea. They also discuss what inspired them to create their company, OITape, and how their background as moms and health advocates led them to design a safer, high-quality mouth tape.

Together, they explore:

• The science behind nasal vs. mouth breathing
• How mouth taping can improve sleep and oxygenation
• The connection between oral development, breastfeeding, and long-term airway health
• What inspired them to make this their business
• Their experiences as entrepreneurs bringing an innovative wellness tool to market

Whether you’re a professional curious about the oral function - breathing connection, or someone looking to improve your own sleep, this episode will inspire you to look at breathing in a whole new way.

🎧 Listen now to discover how small changes can make a big impact on your health, one breath at a time.

More From Tongue Tie Experts:

To learn more, download freebies, and for the links mentioned in the episode, including our popular course, Understanding Milk Supply for Medical and Birth Professionals, click here: www.tonguetieexperts.net/Links

Use code PODCAST15 for 15% off all of our offerings.

Connect with our guests:

Website: https://oitape.com/

https://www.instagram.com/oitape/

https://www.tiktok.com/@oitape

https://www.youtube.com/@oitape

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Special thanks to the sponsor of this episode: IAOM (International Association of Orofacial Myology)

Visit their website here:https://iaom.com/

A gentle disclaimer. Please do not consider anything discussed on this podcast, by myself or any guest of the podcast, to be medical advice. The information is provided for educational purposes only and does not take the place of your own medical or lactation provider.