AME: On Mountain Biking and Being Influenced
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Release Date: 04/14/2025
Very Clinical: Stacking Up the Benefits of CareStack with Jamie Flanagan
The Very Dental Podcast Network
In another Zachless episode, Kevin is joined by Missy Fryer, Al and special guest Jamie Flanagan from CareStack for a candid discussion about their practice's transition to the CareStack dental software platform. They move beyond the hype to share their specific experiences, highlighting the intuitive interface, the power of the real-time dashboard, the efficiency gains from Voice Stack's AI call logging, and the stress reduction from using Care Revenue for insurance management. Discover how consolidating multiple functions into one cloud-based system improved transparency, streamlined...
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AME: Leftover Scallions
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan takes a trip down memory lane, revisiting "The Scallion," a satirical dental news project he and colleagues created (inspired by The Onion) back in the Dental Hacks era (circa 2017-2018). In this episode, Alan reads several archived "Scallion" articles, finding they still hold up with humor poking fun at: Aggressive sales reps at dental meetings. Dentists avoiding shop talk at parties. Exaggerated links between periodontal disease and other health issues. Hilariously inaccurate dental stock photography. The shocking revelations that can come with using dental loupes for the first time....
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Very Dental: Katrina Klein, RDH on Protecting Your Career with Dental Ergonomics
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Today's episode is another one that was recorded live at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting! Alan Mead chats with renowned dental ergonomics expert Katrina Klein. Katrina shares her incredible journey from just starting out to becoming a leading voice in the field, emphasizing the critical role of ergonomics in career longevity. Discover why this often-overlooked aspect of dentistry is essential for preventing pain, improving wellness, and how small, practical changes can make a significant impact on your daily practice and overall health. Some links from the show: Join the using the...
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Very Clinical: A CareStack Story with Jamie Flanagan of CareStack
The Very Dental Podcast Network
In today's Zachless episode, Kevin is joined Alan, along with co-hosts Missy Fryer and Jamie Flanagan of CareStack! They Share insights on transitioning to CareStack, a cloud-based practice management software. The conversation covers initial fears, benefits of the system, and the comprehensive support provided by CareStack during the switch. Jamie outlines the advantages, including consolidation of operations, enhanced security, and operational efficiency. Missy reflects on the seamless data migration and robust ongoing support that alleviated initial concerns. Some links from the show:...
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AME: On Mountain Biking and Being Influenced
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan shares a personal milestone (achieving a fitness age of 50!) and dives into his love for mountain biking – an exercise that feels like playing. He uses his experience to draw a powerful analogy between the often extreme portrayal of mountain biking on social media and the curated "highlight reel" often seen in the dental world online. Alan discusses how comparing ourselves to these curated images can lead to feeling "less than," whether it's watching downhill racers pull off impossible stunts or seeing dentists showcase only their most complex cases. The core message? It's okay to find...
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Very Dental: A Recipe for Implant Dentistry Success with Dr. Tim Kosinski
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Recorded live from the CDS Midwinter Meeting Podcast Lounge, Alan had a great conversation with veteran implant dentist and educator, Dr. Tim Kosinski! With nearly four decades and over 20,000 implants placed, Dr. Kosinski shares his "recipe for success," emphasizing critical thinking, foundational knowledge, and the importance of mentorship in the evolving world of implant dentistry. Key Takeaways: Master the Recipe: Success in implants requires a step-by-step foundational approach. Don't skip steps in planning and execution. Think Critically: Placing the implant isn't the hardest part;...
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Very Clinical: Planting Seeds and Placing Implants with Dr. Adam Frounfelter
The Very Dental Podcast Network
In this throwback episode of Very Clinical Kevin and Zach are joined by Dr. Adam Frounfelter! Adam and Kevin teach hands on implants together at 3D Dentists! Key takeaways: Overview of the 3D Dentist Implant Continuum Key Aspects of Implant Planning and Placement (Crown-Down Approach) Extraction and Grafting Considerations Utilizing PRF and Sticky Bone in Grafting Guided Implant Surgery Benefits Same-Day Scanning for Implant Restorations Post-Implant Placement and Uncovering Surgical Skillset for Implant Training Some links from the show: Join the using the password "Timmerman,"...
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AME: From Curing Lights to Killer Reads (a Recommendation Engine)
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Fresh off a spring break road trip Alan has some dental and non-dental recommendations! Some links from the show: If you're buying Garrison stuff use code SO1124MEAD for 10% off any non-curing light product and $100 credit off a future purchase if you buy a curing light!
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Very Dental: A Conversation with The Badass Hygienist (aka: Melissa Obrotka)
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Alan was joined by the incomparable Melissa Obrotka, also known as "The Badass Hygienist!" They recorded this conversation live at the Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting. The episode dives deep into Melissa's journey in dental hygiene, her passion for progressive care, and her insights on the current state and future of the profession. Melissa shares the story behind her "Badass Hygienist" nickname, stemming from her proactive approach to improving patient care and her willingness to advocate for better technology and techniques. She recounts her experience transitioning to a periodontal...
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Very Clinical: Difficult Crown Preps (and other student questions)
The Very Dental Podcast Network
Kevin and Zach are once again joined by Very Dental Student Mo and Very Dental's Al to answer student questions! Topics: Managing Difficult Crown Preparations Managing Team Conflicts Referring vs. Attempting Extractions Recommended CE Courses for New Dentists Tricks for Achieving Perfect Posterior Composite Contacts Join the using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" Very Clinical is brought to you by Zirc Dental Products, Inc., your trusted partner in dental efficiency and organization. The Very Clinical Corner segment features Kate...
info_outlineAlan shares a personal milestone (achieving a fitness age of 50!) and dives into his love for mountain biking – an exercise that feels like playing. He uses his experience to draw a powerful analogy between the often extreme portrayal of mountain biking on social media and the curated "highlight reel" often seen in the dental world online. Alan discusses how comparing ourselves to these curated images can lead to feeling "less than," whether it's watching downhill racers pull off impossible stunts or seeing dentists showcase only their most complex cases. The core message? It's okay to find joy and fulfillment in your version of biking or dentistry, even if it isn't "Instagram-epic." You are enough, and your "bread and butter" work is valuable.
Key Points:
- Alan's journey from reluctant runner to avid mountain biker (including surviving being hit by a truck!).
- The joy of finding exercise that feels like play.
- The danger of comparing your "insides" to others' curated "outsides."
- Finding contentment and value in your current practice style or skill level is valid and important.
- While pursuing new skills is great if you want to, don't feel pressured by online comparisons.
- You are enough, just as you are.
Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!"
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