519 And The New Co-Hosts Are...
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
The end of an era as Andrew hangs up the mic as host of A Tale of Two Hygienists after more than 10 years. But this isn't a sad day, it's a day to celebrate as we welcome in the two new co-hosts for 2026.. but you have to listen to find out who it is!
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Spice/K2: A Pharmacists Perspective with Tom Viola
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Spice/K2 is incredibly problematic. Not only is it unhealthy, it's also inconsistent and regularly laced with unknown additives and other drugs. Listen to Tom Viola as he explains the main concerns with this recreational drug! Resources: Be sure to reach out to him if you have any questions by emailing , visit his website TomViola.com or check out his social media - @pharmacologydeclassified
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518 Being Thin Does NOT Equal Health with Machell Hoover, RDH
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
We go through different phases of our life and sometimes we are very healthy and sometimes we aren't. Unfortunately, we humans judge books by covers - we think thin is health and heavy is not. In this episode with Machell Hoover she reminds us of what health really looks like, what her journey has been, and how to partner with the right providers to get exactly what your body needs to be healthy. Resources:
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What Should Hygienists Know About Treating Pregnant Patients? Ask The Expert with Katrina Sanders!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
What to see an alarming stat? 77% of OBGYNs report that their pregnant patients are declined routine dental care. There is plenty of stigma and misunderstanding swirling about in the dental community regarding pregnant patients, so give this episode with Katrina Sanders as she shares 8 important tips for treating pregnant patients! Resources: More Fast Facts: Katrina Sanders Website: Katrina Sanders Instagram:
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517 Let's Close Down 2025 Already!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Have you ever been in that weird in-between spot where you are in holiday mode but still have work but want the year to be over for a reset but still need to process the happenings of the previous 12 months? Of course you have, and many of us have been in that exact spot! In this episode we take a proactive approach to making 2026 just that much better with 5 steps you can start today! Resources: https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-to-stop-ruminating-on-the-past#rumination-vs-obsession
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518 Burned Out On Burn Out with Andrew Johnston, RDH
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
In this episode, we dive into the concept of burnout. Burnout has turned into a massive industry buzzword and quite frankly, its mostly misused. Additionally, the solutions that have been given to beat burnout are often addressing something that isn't getting to the root of the problem. Give this episode a listen to see where you stand on the topic! Resources
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How Do I Know When a Patient Truly Needs Scaling and Root Planing? Ask The Expert with Katrina Sanders!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Listen in to this week's episode with Katrina Sanders as she explains when a patient TRULY needs scaling and root planing! Resources: More Fast Facts: Katrina Sanders Website: Katrina Sanders Instagram:
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515 The Current Model of Prevention is Broken with Tim Ives!
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Episode Overview In this thought-provoking episode, Tim Ives joins the show for an in-depth conversation on the evolving role of dental hygienists, the ongoing challenges in oral health, and the importance of behavior change and communication in achieving better patient outcomes. The discussion delves into dental education, interprofessional collaboration, measuring success in hygiene, and innovative ideas for the profession’s future, such as independent hygiene practices and high street outreach. Key Topics Defining the Role of the Dental Hygienist: Tim Ives challenges...
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Inflammation Drivers and Disease Solutions with Tanya Dunlap! **Bonus**
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Episode Overview This episode is a recording of a CE-Caliber presentation led by Tanya Dunlap, Vice President of Clinical and Business Development, and research liaison for Perio Protect. Key Topics Covered Chronic Oral Infections & Systemic Health: Tanya Dunlap explains why chronic oral infections are not just a local problem, but can affect overall health—especially for patients with conditions like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and more. Prescription Tray Therapy Explained: Learn the science behind Perio Protect's periodontal medicament carrier trays—how...
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514 Has Endurance Disappeared in Dentistry? With Dr. Alan Mead
A Tale of Two Hygienists Podcast
Welcome back to another insightful episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists! This week, Andrew Johnston is joined by none other than Dr. Alan Mead—podcaster, dentist, mentor, and community builder. Dr. Mead shares how the dental podcasting landscape has evolved over the years, what it takes to maintain endurance in dentistry, and how the profession continues to change. Highlights from This Episode: Podcasting Roots & Mentorship: Andrew Johnston credits Dr. Alan Mead as the reason this very podcast exists, touching on early Facebook communities, learning tech, and...
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In this engaging throwback episode, Andrew and guest co-host Brittany catch up with Dr. James Younger to talk all things temping in the dentistry. As temping continues to grow in popularity, especially following shifts during the pandemic, this episode is a practical guide and deep dive for early-career professionals and anyone considering a more flexible career path in dentistry.
Key Topics Covered:
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Why Temping is Growing:
James Youngerdiscusses how both new grads and seasoned professionals are increasingly choosing temp shifts for flexibility, empowerment, and financial reasons.
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Finding Your "Work Home": The importance of prioritizing workplace culture and respect over purely financial incentives.
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Transparency in Temping: TempStars’ unique system provides office reviews, equipment ratings, and infection control compliance, so temps know exactly what they're walking into.
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Regional Trends: A look at how temping, demand, and office culture differ from state to state and between the US and Canada.
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Dental Assistants & Hygienists: Debunking the myth that temp assistants are less committed, and how temping is becoming a lifestyle choice for many.
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Expanded Functions & Office Matching: Updates on TempStars’ expansion into the US and how technology is improving matches between offices and dental professionals based on detailed qualifications.
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Impact of AI: The potential for artificial intelligence in making better matches and improving dental workflows.
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Advice to New Grads: Why gaining a broad perspective by temping early in your career helps you find the right office fit without long-term limitations or strings attached.
Must-Listen Moments:
- James Younger
shares data-backed insights on what offices are doing to create better environments—and how TempStars uses reviews to ensure transparency and quality.
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Recommendations for graduates on how to explore multiple offices and make informed decisions about where to settle, with no exclusivity or hidden costs.
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Lively discussion about the evolution of infectious control protocols post-COVID and their ongoing importance.
More Resources:
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Explore TempStars: tempstars.com – Free for professionals to sign up and start browsing opportunities.
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Don’t miss previous tipisodes with Dr.
James Younger: Topics include temping done right, how to request a raise, permission-based care, and unique pathways in dental careers.
Quotes:
"You have to be cautious about chasing just the next dollar. Life is too short." – James Younger
"There’s a proper way to treat people, and that’s aligned now with good business for keeping and retaining great team members." – James Younger
Interested in temping or finding your perfect dental work home? Check out TempStars and connect with thousands of offices and professionals nationwide.
Don’t forget to visit RDH Under One Roof (rdhunderoneroof.com) for networking and education in dental hygiene!
Thanks for listening! Share this episode with a friend who might be considering a new path in dentistry, and tune in next week for more great conversations.