The Very Dental Podcast Network

The Very Dental Podcast network brings you entertaining and relevant conversations with visionaries, clinicians and your friends in the dental space.

Group Function: Bread and Butter Reality with Dr. Mitch Hopkins, Dr. Russell Schafer and Dr. Matt Standridge 02/20/2026

Group Function: Bread and Butter Reality with Dr. Mitch Hopkins, Dr. Russell Schafer and Dr. Matt Standridge "Instagram is dentistry and Facebook is where friends and family are... Instagram is like meth, I can’t get off it." — Alan Mead Alan sits down with a powerhouse trio—Dr. Russell Schafer, Dr. Mitch Hopkins, and Dr. Matt Standridge—live from Voices of Dentistry 2026. They bridge the gap between "Instagram Dentistry" and the daily grind of running a productive practice, covering everything from why 2D photography still beats 3D face scanning to the hard truths about dental school debt and clinical mastery. The Guest List: Dr. Russell Schafer: The man who helped name the "Group Function" and a recurring voice on the network. Dr. Mitch Hopkins: A first-time guest and longtime listener, sharing his journey into implant training and full-mouth rehabs. Dr. Matt Standridge: The "Tom Hanks of the Very Dental Podcast," returning to discuss the discipline of dental photography. Key Conversations: The Gateway to Comprehensive Care: Photography The group discusses Matt's presentation on photography. While high-end DSLRs create "dental porn" for Instagram, the real value lies in using photography as a diagnostic tool for every new patient. The "Dummy" Solution: Discussion on the ShoFu camera as a simpler alternative to complex DSLR setups. The IG Satire: A hilarious pitch for "Garbage Mouth Instagram"—high-end photography of the most neglected cases to stick it to the "AACD" types. 3D Scanning vs. The "Uncanny Valley" Despite the push for $10,000 3D face scanners, the consensus remains: 2D photos are more useful for lab design. * 3D renderings often fall into the "uncanny valley"—looking almost human but just "off" enough to be distracting. Photos are essential for designing smiles that actually fit the patient's face, not just their arches. Advice for the "Mid-Career" and New Dentists The conversation turns to the crushing debt and clinical gaps facing new grads. The All-on-4 Trap: Why jumping straight into full-arch implants because of debt can be a recipe for malpractice. The Power of Bread and Butter: A defense of molar endo, quadrant fillings, and the "Lean and Mean" model of dentistry. The PVS Skillset: Why learning analog impressions (and packing cord!) is still a vital skill in a digital world. Leveling Up Your Clinical Skills The episode wraps with a "lightning round" of advice for improving your work tomorrow: Design Your Own Crowns: Use software to marginate your own preps. It’s the fastest way to realize where your technique is failing. Magnification & Lighting: Whether it’s jumping from 2.5x to 4.5x loops or investing in high-quality surgical headlamps, if you can’t see it, you can’t treat it. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40138680

Very Clinical: The Olds 02/17/2026

Very Clinical: The Olds Kevin and Zack welcome back Dr. Alan Mead for a discussion of modern geriatric dentistry. It's not as much a recipe book for treating older patients but how the guys have seen their geriatric patient population change over time. They discuss the massive divide between "spry" seniors and those struggling with late-life health declines, the ethics of aggressive treatment in nursing homes, and how clinical rules must change when the goal shifts from "permanent fix" to "comfort and function." Episode Highlights Genetics vs. Lifestyle: Why some 80-year-old patients have the periodontal health of a 20-year-old, while some 30-year-olds are already on multiple medications. The "Caries Explosion": A discussion on why a sudden spike in decay in older patients is often a systemic "red flag" for overall health decline. To Treat or Not to Treat: Navigating the difficult conversations with the adult children of aging patients. When is a denture a "death sentence," and when should you just reach for the SDF? Clinical Tools for the Aging: The role of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) and Glass Ionomers in "patching" and maintaining quality of life without invasive surgery. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40126660

AME: 8 Essential Truths About High-Magnification Dentistry 02/16/2026

AME: 8 Essential Truths About High-Magnification Dentistry Alan dives deep into his decades-long journey with high magnification dentistry. In this episode, Alan breaks down why high-powered magnification isn't just for practitioners with "bad eyes" and why it has become the most humbling yet rewarding tool in his operatory. From the technical evolution of the varioscope to the critical importance of specialized lighting, Alan shares why he believes every restorative dentist should consider making the leap to the microscope to rediscover the joy and precision of their craft. The Eyesight Myth: Why magnification isn't a crutch for poor vision, but a tool to see beyond human limits—and why Alan wouldn't let a "naked eye" dentist work on him. Light vs. Magnification: A look at why lighting is arguably as important as the lens itself, including Alan’s preference for Enova surgical headlamps over traditional overhead lights. Beyond Endodontics: Debunking the idea that microscopes are strictly for root canals and exploring their value in restorative diagnosis and execution. The Varioscope Revolution: How variable objective lenses have drastically lowered the learning curve for new microscope users compared to the "static" lenses of the past. The "Humbling" Reality of 15x: Why seeing your work under high power can be frustrating but ultimately raises the bar for your foundational skills and polishing techniques. Mastering Documentation: Practical tips on using beam splitters, keeping your camera in focus, and why a dedicated scope monitor is a game-changer for your workflow. Patient Perception: The surprising truth about why patients are often more impressed by 3D scanners than live microscope feeds. Some links from the show: (Dr. Nazariy Mykhaylyuk) Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40118880

Very Dental Extra: Chicago Midwinter Preview with Dr. Phil Schefke, President of the Chicago Dental Society 02/14/2026

Very Dental Extra: Chicago Midwinter Preview with Dr. Phil Schefke, President of the Chicago Dental Society This special Saturday episode of the Very Dental Podcast is all about the upcoming Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting! Alan Mead sits down with Dr. Phil Schefke, President of the Chicago Dental Society (CDS), to preview the 2026 Midwinter Meeting. Whether you’re a 30-year veteran of the meeting or a dental student looking for your first experience, this episode dives into why Chicago remains the premier destination for dental innovation, collegiality, and—believe it or not—puppies. The Guest: Dr. Phil Schefke Dr. Schefke serves as the President of the Chicago Dental Society, the largest component of the ADA. With a board of 15 members and a dedicated staff, Phil has spent nearly a decade on the leadership ladder to help orchestrate a meeting that hosts attendees from all 50 states and over 60 countries. What’s New at the Midwinter Meeting? The CDS team has spent three years redesigning the attendee experience based on direct feedback. Here are the new features and highlights discussed in this episode: Streamlined Registration: No more waiting for badges in the mail. Attendees will receive a QR code to print their badges at self-service stations at McCormick Place or at three partner hotels (Hyatt Regency on Wacker, Hyatt McCormick, and Marriott McCormick). Enhanced Exhibit Floor Layout: The floor has been redesigned with shorter aisles for easier mobility and "crisscross" navigation. Refresh & Recharge Stations: Scattered throughout the floor, these areas offer water and phone charging ports to keep you hydrated and connected. Grab-and-Go Dining: New food stations on the exhibit floor designed for quick lunches between CE courses. The "Hadley" Puppy Corner: A dedicated space in the back of the exhibit hall to play with puppies and melt away the stress of the day (named after the first CDS president). Early Career Dentist Lounge: A comfortable space featuring couches and networking opportunities specifically for the next generation of clinicians. CDS "Swag" Booth: For the first time, attendees can purchase official CDS-branded jackets, sweaters, and coffee cups. Tech Upgrades: A brand-new, intuitive registration system that prevents double-booking courses and high-quality, reliable Wi-Fi throughout the venue. On-Site Mobile Clinic: The Illinois Masonic Hospital will have their mobile dental van on the floor for tours and demonstrations. Free Professional Headshots: Available at the CDS footprint for attendees to update their professional profiles. Special Events & Keynotes Thursday: Keynote speaker Chris Chelios, three-time Stanley Cup champion, discussing leadership and championship-level teamwork. (Plus, Garrett’s Popcorn giveaways!) Friday: "Sip, Suds, and Sales" (beer and wine on the exhibit floor) followed by the Beats and Bites DJ party. Saturday: The traditional President’s Dinner Dance, a black-tie event featuring a live band to celebrate the week’s successes. The "Fourth Level" of Dentistry Alan and Phil discuss the "secret sauce" of CDS membership. At just $125 (for ADA members), membership provides free registration to the meeting, offering incredible value compared to standard registration fees. It’s a tradition that spans 161 years, proving that while technology changes, the value of face-to-face collegiality remains priceless. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40105350

Very Dental: The $500,000 Question with Dr. Paul Etchison 02/13/2026

Very Dental: The $500,000 Question with Dr. Paul Etchison "I think we're reaching a breaking point where people are starting to reflect and say, 'Man, I don't know if the juice is worth the squeeze anymore.'" — Dr. Paul Etchison Recorded live at Voices of Dentistry 2026 in sunny Gilbert, Arizona, Alan sits down with a VOD favorite, Dr. Paul Etchison of the . They dive deep into the staggering reality of modern dental school debt, the "juice vs. the squeeze" of ownership, and why dentists should probably stay away from the restaurant business. The Debt Wall The financial landscape for new dentists has shifted dramatically. Alan and Paul compare the "then vs. now" of education costs: The 1997 Reality: Alan graduated with roughly $85,000 in debt. The 2009 Reality: Paul finished with around $235,000. The 2026 Reality: In-state tuition at schools like the University of Michigan can exceed $400,000 before living expenses, often resulting in $4,000–$5,000 monthly loan payments right out of the gate. Ownership: The Only Way Out? While ownership comes with "headaches," Paul argues it remains the most viable path to outrun massive debt. The Associate Cap: Even high-producing associates (doing $2M/year) are limited by their percentage. An owner doing the same production sees a significantly higher return. Value Creation: To be a top-tier associate or a successful owner, you must move beyond "bread and butter" dentistry and master communication and case presentation. Building Skills and Getting "Reps" Deep Dive vs. Scattershot: Instead of taking random weekend courses, find a specialty you enjoy (Endo, Ortho, etc.) and commit to it. The Endo Struggle: Paul and Alan discuss the importance of "reps" and why waiting for the "perfect" case often prevents you from ever getting good at the procedure. The Microscope Factor: Using a scope can find the MB2, but it doesn’t necessarily make you faster without the volume of experience. The "Curated" Business Model If dentistry vanished tomorrow, what would these guys do? The Sausage and Bread Theory: Alan highlights small businesses in Northern Michigan that succeed through curation rather than volume. The Bourdain Warning: A nod to Anthony Bourdain’s Kitchen Confidential, which famously warns dentists against buying restaurants just because they "throw a good party." Some links from the show: by Anthony Bourdain Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40091540

Very Clinical: The "Resurrected" Patient...Sometimes They Come Back 02/10/2026

Very Clinical: The "Resurrected" Patient...Sometimes They Come Back Zach and Kevin welcome Alan back to the show by commiserating over those moments where you look at your schedule and wonder why you (or your past self) agreed to a specific procedure. Kevin’s #16 Crown Prep: Kevin recounts the dread of seeing a crown prep on a third molar (#16) at 8:00 AM. Despite the technical difficulty and the "Is this a joke?" feeling, it ended up being successful with a rubber dam. Zach's "Self-Extracting" Molars: Zach shares a cautionary tale from his early career working with his father. He attempted to crown a second molar that was tilted so far distally it was practically trying to extract itself. The result? A lost contact, a lost crown, and eventually, a lost patient. The Bioclear Pivot: Alan discusses a recent case where he planned a crown on #15 but found decay so deep it was near the crest. He pivoted to a side-by-side Bioclear composite, which was harder and more time-consuming but ultimately the right clinical choice. Categorizing the "Resurrected" Patient The main theme of the episode focuses on patients who reappear after years—sometimes a decade—away from the chair. Alan and the hosts break these down into tiers: 1. The S-Tier (The Best Case) These are patients who didn't leave because of a conflict; they simply "had a gap in life." Examples: Moving away and moving back, going through a divorce, or the "COVID-12" (people who stopped coming in 2020 and are just now emerging). The Dynamic: They still feel like "your" patients. They often have a high follow-through rate because they are relieved to be back in a familiar, trusted environment. 2. The A-Tier (The "Grass Wasn't Greener") Patients who left for a specific reason—usually insurance—and realized that "a dentist is a dentist" isn't actually true. The Insurance Trap: Many leave because the office went out-of-network, only to find that the "in-network" experience lacked the technology or relationship they valued. The Result: When they return, they often have a newfound appreciation for the higher level of service and clinical care provided. 3. The Lower Tiers (The Friction Cases) The Billing "B-Tier": Patients who disappeared because they owed money. They usually only reappear when they have an emergency and are suddenly willing to pay their old balance to get out of pain. The Personality "C-Tier": Patients who left after a confrontation or a bad review. Professional Growth & "Hard Nos" Alan reflects on how his clinical confidence has changed over the years. When a patient returns after 10 years, they aren't seeing the same dentist; they are seeing a version of Alan that is more skilled, has better tools (like new Bioclear matrices), and more experience. When is a "Resurrection" a "Hard No"? Abuse of Staff: Rudeness, yelling, or cussing out the team. Chronic No-Shows: People who are "constitutionally incapable" of making it to an appointment. The Dismissed: If a formal dismissal letter was sent, the door remains closed regardless of the patient's willingness to pay. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40036270

AME: Injection Molding with TSS and Scanning with Elves 02/09/2026

AME: Injection Molding with TSS and Scanning with Elves Alan discusses his "whirlwind" travel plans for the Chicago Midwinter Meeting, reviews the new Bioclear TSS Matrix system, and shares his first impressions of the remarkably small Shining 3D Elf scanner. Key Highlights The Chicago Midwinter Strategy Alan is opting for a surgical strike on Chicago this year: The Schedule: Working Thursday, driving to Indiana, hitting the McCormick Center all day Friday for recording, and driving back Friday night. The Goal: Maximizing "content in the can" by recording with attendees and exhibitors without the expense of a multi-day hotel stay. Connect: If you're at McCormick Place on Friday the 20th, reach out via Facebook to say hello. Product Spotlight: Bioclear TSS Matrices Alan breaks down the new The Workflow: Labeled by tooth number (6–11) and surface (mesial/distal), making it "assistant-proof." Performance: Stiffer than previous iterations with better gingival control and less "over-bulking," significantly reducing finishing and polishing time. Essential Accessory: QwikStrips(specifically the Red and White versions) for breaking contacts before matrix placement. Listener Discount: Use code VERYDENTAL8TON at Bioclear for 15% off your order (includes courses and products). Tech Review: The Shining 3D "Elf" Scanner Purchased through CAD-Ray, this new scanner is making waves for its form factor. Size: Comparable to a curing light or intraoral camera; it plugs directly into USBC with no external power brick. Speed: Extremely fast full-arch scans with high accuracy on soft tissue (ideal for removable cases). Ease of Use: "Plug and play" installation with immediate functionality, even for those used to the Medit ecosystem. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40035655

Group Function: The "Regular Ass" Dentist's Guide to Selling Your Practice with Dr. Alex Kantor and Dr. Eric Applesies 02/06/2026

Group Function: The "Regular Ass" Dentist's Guide to Selling Your Practice with Dr. Alex Kantor and Dr. Eric Applesies In this episode of the Group Function podcast, host Alan Mead sits down with Dr. Alex Kantor and Dr. Eric Applesies from the Just a Couple of Dentists podcast to unpack the "regular ass dentist" experience of buying, starting, running and selling dental practices! Fresh off their presentation at the 2026 Voices of Dentistry conference, the Eric and Alex (a married couple of dentists) dive into the logistics of optimizing a practice for sale, emphasizing that maximum value is built in the 18 to 24 months before a transition by tightening systems and improving hygiene "show rates." The conversation balances technical advice on EBITDA and overhead reduction with a candid—and occasionally spicy—critique of the post-COVID hygiene labor market, ultimately highlighting how dentists can prepare their businesses for a successful handoff to either a private buyer or a DSO. In their session and conversation with Alan, Dr. Alex Cantor and Dr. Eric Applesies highlighted several key levers to pull when prepping a practice for sale. Their core philosophy is that "a dollar saved is $4 to $6 earned" during a valuation. Key Optimization Strategies The 12-to-24-Month Runway: Valuations are typically based on the last 12 months of profit (EBITDA). To ensure your systems are fully "flushed out" and consistent, start implementing changes 18 to 24 months before you intend to sell. Hygiene "Show Rates": Increasing your show rate from 70% to 90% is considered "low-hanging fruit." Because hygiene has low variable costs (mostly just prophy paste and floss), nearly every dollar of a kept hygiene appointment goes directly to the bottom line, which is then multiplied during a sale. Aggressive Appointment Confirmation: Use automated texts to keep appointments top-of-mind. The "48-Hour Rule": If a patient hasn't confirmed 48 hours out, inform them they will be removed from the schedule. Follow Through: Actually remove unconfirmed patients to give your team two days to fill the spot with someone who wants to be there. Overhead Reduction (The "Spend" Side): Supplies: Move away from the "old school" model of buying through a single rep who brings donuts. Use platforms like Crazy Dental or Net 32 to treat supplies as a commodity and secure the lowest price. Labs: Look for efficiency gains through model-less workflows and digital scanning, which can reduce lab fees and turnaround times. Clinical Extraction: If you want to retire immediately after the sale, stop working clinically one year prior. This proves to a buyer (especially a DSO) that the practice's revenue is sustained by systems and associates, not just your individual production. Know Your "Game": Private Buyer: Better if you want a quick exit (6–12 months) and have a smaller practice. DSO Buyer: Better for high-revenue practices ($5M+ range), but usually requires you to stay on for several years as an associate. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Paul, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Are you a practice owner who feels like the bottleneck in your own business? If you’re tired of being the hardest-working person in your office, I’ve got something you need to hear. Dr. Paul Etchison, is hosting a virtual event that is a total game-changer. Paul is honestly one of the most brilliant minds in dental leadership today, and he’s hosting the 3-Day Freedom Practice Workshop from February 19th through the 21st. He’s going to show you exactly how to break through that two-million-dollar revenue ceiling while actually compressing your clinical week. It’s about building a leadership team that takes ownership so you can finally step into the CEO role you deserve. Head over to to grab your spot. And do me a favor—mention the Very Dental podcast when you sign up. It’s 100% guaranteed, so you’ve got nothing to lose but the stress. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/40004700

Very Dental: Turf Battles and Surgery on Awake People with Dr. Abe Hoellrich 01/30/2026

Very Dental: Turf Battles and Surgery on Awake People with Dr. Abe Hoellrich In this episode Alan sits down with Dr. Abe Hoellrich in Scottsdale, Arizona, during the Voices of Dentistry conference! Abe’s practice focuses on sedation dentistry in Columbus, Ohio. He offers an insider’s perspective on the "turf battles" surrounding anesthesia privileges, weighing the tensions between general dentists, oral surgeons, and medical doctors. The discussion highlights the nuances of patient safety versus access to care, with Abe arguing for the superior safety of reversible IV sedation compared to oral methods and emphasizing the need for stringent training to preserve the future of dental sedation. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39926500

Very Clinical: OG Dental Social Media 01/27/2026

Very Clinical: OG Dental Social Media In this episode of the Very Clinical podcast, Zach and Kevin explore the evolution of social media within the dental profession, tracing the landscape from the early days of message boards like Dentaltown to the current era of Facebook groups, Reddit, and X. The hosts reflect on their personal experiences as digital observers and participants, discussing the culture of online communities—ranging from the valuable exchange of clinical tips to the unfortunate prevalence of "dunking" and trolling. They wrap up the conversation by sharing their favorite positive resources for dental content, including specific Instagram accounts and YouTube channels that offer genuine educational value. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Crazy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! Al literally just bought (and is still waiting for delivery) of the new Elf scanner from Shining 3D and CAD-Ray helped make it happen! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39889270

Very Dental: The Crazy Way to Lower Your Overhead with Jay Glazer 01/23/2026

Very Dental: The Crazy Way to Lower Your Overhead with Jay Glazer Recorded live from VoD 2026 in Gilbert, Arizona Alan is joined by Jay Glazer from Crazy Dental to tackle the rising costs of running a dental practice. Together, they dismantle the outdated model of relying on sales reps and "special" pricing lists, advocating instead for the transparency and efficiency of online ordering. Jay shares his philosophy on overhead control using the "14-dollar milkshake" analogy, illustrating how small savings on supplies can compound into massive wealth over time. Tune in to learn how to ditch the donuts, stop overpaying for the same products, and utilize exclusive promo codes to slash your overhead immediately. Some links from the show: use VERYSHIP for free shipping or VERYDENTAL10 for 10% off of your first order! Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39796840

Very Dental Classics: Live from VoD...The Dental Hacks Reunion! 01/16/2026

Very Dental Classics: Live from VoD...The Dental Hacks Reunion! This throwback episode was originally recorded live from the main stage at Voices of Dentistry 2022 where the original Dental Hacks—Dr. Alan Mead and Dr. Jason Lipscomb—reunite for a hilarious and nostalgic session. The duo kicks things off by catching up on life since their "breakup" and going head-to-head in a competition to determine who has endured the worst patient horror story of the pandemic era. Later in the show, the classic Brain Trust format returns as Dr. Mark Costes and Dr. Justin Moody join the stage for a round of "Ask Us Anything." The panel covers a wide range of topics, including their surprising hobbies outside of dentistry, pandemic takeaways, and critical advice regarding practice startups versus acquisitions for the next generation of dentists. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39699640

Very Dental Classics: Is Zirconia Too Strong? Protocols for Posterior Restorations with Dr. Mike DiTolla 01/09/2026

Very Dental Classics: Is Zirconia Too Strong? Protocols for Posterior Restorations with Dr. Mike DiTolla In this classic episode Dr. Mike DiTolla returns to the show to break down the clinical realities of working with zirconia. After sharing a humorous and humbling story about his recent shoulder surgery and the universality of missed nerve blocks, Mike shifts focus to the material science of modern dentistry. He details the specific use cases for full-strength versus translucent zirconia, explains why he treats cement margins like narrow Class V restorations, and offers precise protocols for adjusting and polishing without damaging the ceramic. From the "Lipscomb Scale" of removal difficulty to the critical importance of decontamination after try-in, this conversation offers practical, universal solutions for simplifying the zirconia workflow. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39599680

Very Dental Classics: Sugar, Science and Dr. Rella Christensen 01/02/2026

Very Dental Classics: Sugar, Science and Dr. Rella Christensen This classic Dental Hacks episode features a long-form interview with Dr. Rella Christensen of TRAC Research (formerly CRA). The discussion covers the history of independent product evaluation, the challenges of maintaining objectivity in dental research, and significant findings regarding restorative materials and caries management. The original interview had really poor sound quality but a little help from an Adobe AI filter really cleared it up. This interview was worth another listen, I think! Key Interview Highlights 1. The Origins and Ethics of TRAC Research History: The organization began in 1976 (founded by Gordon Christensen) with the goal of collecting subjective data from clinicians to create objective "Consumer Reports" style rankings for dentistry. Unbiased Stance: Dr. Christensen emphasized that TRAC is a non-profit foundation that accepts no funding from manufacturers. If a company refuses to provide a product for testing (often fearing a negative review), TRAC purchases it on the open market to ensure the data is captured. The "File Drawer" Effect: They discussed how negative research is rarely published in journals due to corporate influence in dental schools and editorial boards. TRAC aims to publish the truth, even when it is negative. 2. Restorative Materials: The Zirconia Revolution 10-Year Study Results: Dr. Christensen detailed a 10-year study comparing various ceramic systems. The Failure: Zirconia substructures (like Lava) survived well, but the veneering ceramics (porcelain layered on top) had massive failure rates (chipping and cracking). The Winner: The study pointed toward monolithic zirconia (specifically BruxZir) and lithium disilicate (e.max) as the most durable options. Translucency Warning: She noted that as manufacturers push for more translucent (anterior) zirconia, they often lower the flexural strength (from ~1200 MPa to ~600 MPa). She cautioned that the long-term fracture toughness of these newer, "prettier" zirconias was still unknown at the time 3. The "Bombshell": Enamel Remineralization & Caries The Study: TRAC performed an in-depth clinical study on 330 orthodontic patients (high risk for white spot lesions). They tested various protocols including MI Paste, Fluoride Varnish, Ozone, and Xylitol against a control group. The Result: None of the products performed statistically better than the control group (who did nothing special), with the exception of PreviDent 5000, which was only marginally better. The Conclusion: Dr. Christensen concluded that you cannot arrest caries or remineralize enamel if the patient's diet is not addressed. She stated that dental caries is "the only infectious disease we attempt to treat while allowing the cause [sugar] to continue." Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39557615

Very Clinical: New Year, New Gear with Dr. Gary Holtzclaw and Dr. Erin Elliott 12/30/2025

Very Clinical: New Year, New Gear with Dr. Gary Holtzclaw and Dr. Erin Elliott It’s New Year’s Eve Eve! Zach and Kevin return to close out the year with returning guests Dr. Gary Holtzclaw and Dr. Erin Elliott. In this final episode of 2025, the crew trades stories about their most memorable (and traumatic) New Year’s Eve experiences—including a high school snowball fight that went terribly wrong and an intense dental school dodgeball tournament. Later, the conversation shifts from parties to protocols as the group discusses the major clinical and business changes they implemented in their practices this year. From AI integration and staffing shake-ups to battles with corporate CEOs and the rise of "Google Review extortion," they cover the highs and lows of practicing dentistry in 2025. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39548240

AME: Hitting Pause and Rewind in 2026 12/29/2025

AME: Hitting Pause and Rewind in 2026 In this candid episode, Alan announces he is taking a hiatus from recording new content for the Very Dental Podcast Network. Feeling momentarily "tapped out" after nearly 12 years of podcasting, Alan reflects on the evolution of the medium and his desire to avoid becoming repetitive. Starting in January, the show will move to a weekly Friday release schedule featuring remastered "Greatest Hits" episodes, beginning with a classic 2015 interview with Dr. Rella Christensen. While he plans to step back from the microphone for a bit, he will continue to produce episodes for hosts Kevin and Zach and intends to record at the upcoming Voice of Dentistry and Chicago Midwinter meetings. Alan concludes by asking the audience for feedback on future formats, including potential co-hosts or narrative storytelling. or if you've got thoughts. Some links from the show: Go check out from courses to gear to matrices, you can get 15% off your order with code: VeryDental8TON : Get free shipping with code: VeryDentalShip Net32: Check out great pricing at : Mention "Very Dental" to get your setup fee waived. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! Crazy Dental has everything you need—from cotton rolls to equipment—at the best prices! Get an free shipping on your order by visiting and using coupon code VERYSHIP. Save money and support the show. The Wonderist Agency is your one-stop shop for marketing your dental practice and brand. They cover everything from logo redesign to a full-service marketing plan. Check them out at Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes. They also distribute loupe-mounted cameras and Zumax microscopes! Boost your magnification/headlight game and support the podcast at . CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills, and their own browser-based design software, Clinux. See the brand new scanner from Shining 3D, the Elf! Get the best service on all things digital dentistry at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39549215

Very Dental: Facially Generated Success, a conversation with Dr. Frank Spear and Dr. Gregg Kinzer 12/26/2025

Very Dental: Facially Generated Success, a conversation with Dr. Frank Spear and Dr. Gregg Kinzer In this throwback Dental Hacks episode, I am joined by Dr. Jason Lipscomb to welcome two absolute legends in dental education: Dr. Frank Spear and Dr. Gregg Kinzer. This interview was originally released back in 2018 and it marked the first time Jason, Frank, and Gregg sat down together on the podcast, delivering a conversation packed with history, philosophy, and actionable practice management advice. The conversation traces the evolution of dental continuing education, moving from Frank’s early days of disjointed lectures to the structured, curriculum-based approach of the Spear Center today. The group discusses the dynamics of Frank and Gregg’s successful 20-year partnership, emphasizing the importance of shared vision over finding a "clone." They provide deep insights into patient communication, specifically how to filter new patients using the "Emergency Room vs. Mayo Clinic" analogy and how to re-engage long-time patients in comprehensive care without making them feel neglected. Finally, they cover the importance of fighting burnout through clinical growth and the future of restorative dentistry, including the integration of airway health and online team education. Some links from the show: Jason: Alan: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39527645

A Very Clinical Christmas with Dr. Erin Elliott and Dr. Gary Holtzclaw 12/23/2025

A Very Clinical Christmas with Dr. Erin Elliott and Dr. Gary Holtzclaw Join hosts Zach and Kevin for the annual Very Clinical holiday wrap-up! This week, they welcome back the recurring year-end duo, Dr. Erin Elliott and Dr. Gary Holtzclaw. It is officially a tradition as Erin and Gary join the guys to break down how they are spending the holidays and what has changed in their lives over the last twelve months. In this festive episode, the group shares their unique Christmas traditions, ranging from Icelandic rice pudding games to seafood feasts and tongue-in-cheek "virgin sacrifices." Beyond the holiday cheer, they dive into significant life updates. Kevin discusses the transition of selling his practice to become an associate and his growing obsession with pickleball. Erin shares the joys of empty nesting and her quest to visit every NFL stadium. Gary reveals why he deleted his social media accounts to reclaim his attention span and his commitment to taking real vacations, while Zach opens up about the realities of taking over full ownership of his family practice. It is a candid look at the personal and professional evolution of four dentists at different stages of their careers. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39498385

AME: Getting Your Head Straight for the Holidays 12/22/2025

AME: Getting Your Head Straight for the Holidays In this holiday edition, Alan starts off feeling the weight of the Winter Solstice and a bit of "podcasting burnout," questioning whether an audio veteran needs to pivot to video to stay relevant. However, he refuses to stay in a funk. Alan shares his real-time strategy for getting his head straight for the holidays, including a change of recording venue, hacking his own social media algorithms to remove toxicity, and finally getting back to the gym. He also shares updates on his practice’s workflow, his renewed passion for Bioclear, and why you need to be in Arizona this January. Some links from the show: Go check out from courses to gear to matrices, you can get 15% off your order with code: VeryDental8TON : Get free shipping with code: VeryDentalShip Net32: Check out great pricing at : Mention "Very Dental" to get your setup fee waived. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! Crazy Dental has everything you need—from cotton rolls to equipment—at the best prices! Get an free shipping on your order by visiting and using coupon code VERYSHIP. Save money and support the show. The Wonderist Agency is your one-stop shop for marketing your dental practice and brand. They cover everything from logo redesign to a full-service marketing plan. Check them out at Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes. They also distribute loupe-mounted cameras and Zumax microscopes! Boost your magnification/headlight game and support the podcast at . CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills, and their own browser-based design software, Clinux. See the brand new scanner from Shining 3D, the Elf! Get the best service on all things digital dentistry at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39487620

Very Dental Classics: It's the Airway, Stupid with Dr. Jeff Rouse 12/19/2025

Very Dental Classics: It's the Airway, Stupid with Dr. Jeff Rouse This throwback Dental Hacks episode features one of Alan and Jason's classic airway discussions with Dr. Jeff Rouse. This was recorded at the 2018 DS World held in Orlando. Dr. Rouse elaborated on the Seattle Protocol and the essential approach to airway management in dentistry. Jeff broke down the differences between airway issues and sleep apnea, emphasizing the importance of nasal breathing and the role of night guards. He also addresses screening techniques using high-resolution pulse oximetry and cardiopulmonary coupling and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration involving ENT specialists and orthodontists. Some links from the show: Jeff's links: Links from the show: Al's article in the November issue of Dental Economics: Go Hack Yourself: Jason: Alan: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39454890

Very Clinical: Keep CADCAMing with Dr. Dhaval Patel 12/16/2025

Very Clinical: Keep CADCAMing with Dr. Dhaval Patel Kevin and Alan are joined again by Dr. Dhaval Patel to discuss the significant shifts occurring in digital dentistry, moving beyond the traditional CEREC workflow. Dhaval explains that his highly popular online group, "Keep CERECing," was recently renamed "Keep CAD/CAMing" after he consulted with Dentsply Sirona's legal team regarding trademark usage, which prompted him to broaden the group's scope. This change has led to a natural expansion in technology focus, now encompassing the wider CAD/CAM landscape including 3D printing and 5-axis milling. Dhaval details how he uses 3D printing for models, surgical guides, and night guards, and leverages a 5-axis mill for larger, multi-unit cases and zirconia restorations, highlighting the cost efficiency and ability to run large jobs overnight. The conversation also explores the rise of dedicated, outsourced digital designers and the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to handle design in the near future. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39411690

AME: 363 Days 12/15/2025

Very Dental: AI Skepticism with Dr. Gary Holtzclaw 12/12/2025

Very Dental: AI Skepticism with Dr. Gary Holtzclaw AI is in the conversation all the time these days. Most people are convinced that the productivity gains that AI promises are all to the good, but is that really true? Alan is joined again by Dr. Gary Holtzclaw for a conversation that needs to be had. The conversation includes the role of AI in dentistry, skepticism towards new technologies, the evolution of social media, and the impact of sports betting on the integrity of sports. They explore the benefits and potential threats of AI, the changing landscape of social media interactions, and the implications of gambling in sports. The conversation highlights the need for critical thinking in the face of overwhelming information and the importance of maintaining integrity in both technology and sports. Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39367570

Very Clinical: You Won't Know if You Don't Ask with Dr. Dhaval Patel 12/09/2025

Very Clinical: You Won't Know if You Don't Ask with Dr. Dhaval Patel On the Very Clinical podcast we're suckers for a good story, and our guest, Dr. Dhaval Patel tells one of the best ones we've ever heard! Kevin and Alan (sorry, no Zach this episode, he's busy mourning the record of his Kansas City Chiefs) welcome Dr. Dhaval Patel to the show. Our plan was to talk about his journey into CAD-CAM dentistry and don't worry, we get there. But he tells the story of how he became a dentist in the US after his training in India and the story is AMAZING. Let's just say that Dhaval has taught us that you need to ask for the things that you want. Following this amazing story, Dr. Patel recounts his unexpected introduction to CEREC technology in 2006, starting with a dust-collecting Red Cam unit at his Pacific Dental Services office. Despite initial skepticism from colleagues about "shitty crowns," a half-day training session with Dr. Bob Conrad ignited his passion for the technology, leading him to fully embrace it, become an owner-doctor, an early adopter of the Omnicam, a renowned speaker, and the founder of the popular Keep CERECing Facebook group in 2016. He concludes by announcing the upcoming Third Annual Keep CAD Camming meeting in Austin, October 15th-17th, 2026, which will expand beyond CEREC to cover a wider range of CAD/CAM and digital dentistry topics. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39322620

Very Dental Student: Mo on Boards and Externships! 12/08/2025

Very Dental Student: Mo on Boards and Externships! In this episode of the Very Dental Student Podcast, host Mohamed Abo-Basha and Dr. Alan Mead discuss his journey through the fall semester of his D4 year. We discuss Mo's recent experiences with dental boards and externships as he approaches graduation. Mo shares that the dental boards have recently changed, moving away from live patient exams to mannequin-based clinical testing (Prosthodontics, Endodontics, Periodontics already completed, Operative to follow) and computer-based written boards. He expresses that this change is a positive step ethically. Clinically, Mo is nearing completion of his requirements, only needing a few more Scaling and Root Planing (SRP) cases. He also details his externships, which provided valuable experience in high-volume operative and extraction procedures at a low-fee clinic and a mobile unit, significantly boosting his speed and confidence in procedures like administering anesthesia and performing quick, effective patient exams. Looking ahead, his final semester will primarily involve a Surgical Implantology class and serving as a Teaching Assistant (TA) for first-year operative students, which he anticipates will be a rewarding experience. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! Crazy Dental has everything you need—from cotton rolls to equipment—at the best prices! Get an free shipping on your order by visiting and using coupon code VERYSHIP. Save money and support the show. The Wonderist Agency is your one-stop shop for marketing your dental practice and brand. They cover everything from logo redesign to a full-service marketing plan. Check them out at Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes. They also distribute loupe-mounted cameras and Zumax microscopes! Boost your magnification/headlight game and support the podcast at . CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills, and their own browser-based design software, Clinux. See the brand new scanner from Shining 3D, the Elf! Get the best service on all things digital dentistry at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39309530

Very Dental: One Move Makes All the Difference with Dr. Martin Mendelson 12/05/2025

Very Dental: One Move Makes All the Difference with Dr. Martin Mendelson Alan is joined once again by Dr. Martin Mendelson to talk about about his new book, 'One Move Makes All the Difference.' They discuss the journey of writing the book, the importance of taking actionable steps, and how to overcome overwhelm in both personal and professional life. Martin shares insights on marketing strategies, the future of dental practice ownership, and the role of coaching in personal development. The conversation also touches on the innovative use of AI in audiobook production and the significance of personal stories in inspiring others. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39222515

Very Clinical: Dr. Nate Lawson in 3D! 12/02/2025

Very Clinical: Dr. Nate Lawson in 3D! In this throwback episode of the Very Clinical Podcast, hosts Zach and Kevin are joined by Dr. Nate Lawson to dive into the evolving world of 3D printing in dentistry. They touch on a variety of topics including the current state of 3D printed crowns, bonding protocols, practical applications in night guards and dentures, and market trends. They also discuss the economic and technological benefits and challenges of integrating 3D printing in a dental practice. Some links from the show: on Instagram Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39222030

AME: The Beginner's Mindset 12/01/2025

AME: The Beginner's Mindset Alan opens the episode by discussing his experiences teaching his two sons, particularly his youngest, Jacob, how to drive. This experience, which he finds unnerving and anxiety-producing, has highlighted how much of his own driving is now automatic "muscle memory" that he struggles to verbalize. He notes the beginner's mindset—or lack thereof, particularly in confident teenage boys—and how new drivers often don't realize what they don't know, struggling with basic things like staying in the lane. Alan draws a parallel between his son's learner's permit and a new dental license, reflecting on his own lack of clinical experience after graduating dental school in 1997 with a minimal number of completed procedures. He suggests that a new dentist's license is essentially a "learner's permit," and advises both new practitioners and experienced dentists approaching new techniques (like his recent Bioclear review) to embrace humility and the beginner's mindset to learn effectively without existing biases. Join the Very Dental Facebook Group using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! Crazy Dental has everything you need—from cotton rolls to equipment—at the best prices! Get an free shipping on your order by visiting and using coupon code VERYSHIP. Save money and support the show. The Wonderist Agency is your one-stop shop for marketing your dental practice and brand. They cover everything from logo redesign to a full-service marketing plan. Check them out at Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes. They also distribute loupe-mounted cameras and Zumax microscopes! Boost your magnification/headlight game and support the podcast at . CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills, and their own browser-based design software, Clinux. See the brand new scanner from Shining 3D, the Elf! Get the best service on all things digital dentistry at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39213185

Very Dental: The $10,000 Bioclear Tooth and Other Tales with Dr. David Clark 11/28/2025

Very Dental: The $10,000 Bioclear Tooth and Other Tales with Dr. David Clark This episode features host Alan welcoming back guest Dr. David Clark, the founder of the Bioclear Method, for an insightful and entertaining discussion. The main focus is the launch of the new Tooth and Surface Specific (TSS) matrix system, which David describes as a "game-changer" that significantly simplifies complex composite restorations, particularly for teeth with normal papillae. They also cover the rising value of Bioclear procedures, with David sharing a story of a patient who expected to pay $10,000 per tooth for comprehensive treatment. Finally, they dive into a "King of the Nerds" conversation about the use of operating microscopes in dentistry, drawing parallels to the early resistance faced by a pioneering neurosurgeon, and discussing the challenge of using high magnification on an unstable patient—like a scene from the movie Twister. Some links from the show: Join the using one of these passwords: Timmerman, Bioclear, Hornbrook, Gary, McWethy, Papa Randy, or Lipscomb! The Very Dental Podcast Network is and will remain free; please support the people who support us! I’m a big fan of the ! I think you should give it a try and I’ve got a great offer to help you get on board! Use the exclusive Very Dental Podcast code VERYDENTAL8TON for 15% OFF your total Bioclear purchase, including Core Anterior and Posterior Four day courses, Black Triangle Certification, and all Bioclear products. Crazy Dental has everything you need—from cotton rolls to equipment—at the best prices! Get an free shipping on your order by visiting and using coupon code VERYSHIP. Save money and support the show. The Wonderist Agency is your one-stop shop for marketing your dental practice and brand. They cover everything from logo redesign to a full-service marketing plan. Check them out at Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes. They also distribute loupe-mounted cameras and Zumax microscopes! Boost your magnification/headlight game and support the podcast at . CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills, and their own browser-based design software, Clinux. See the brand new scanner from Shining 3D, the Elf! Get the best service on all things digital dentistry at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39168670

Very Clinical: Three Parts of a Dental Career with Dr. Frank Clayton 11/25/2025

Very Clinical: Three Parts of a Dental Career with Dr. Frank Clayton In this episode of the Very Clinical Podcast, hosts Zach and Kevin welcome back special guest Dr. Frank Clayton for a deep-dive conversation sharing essential advice on navigating a dental career from its beginning stages to retirement. The discussion kicks off with lighthearted banter about alternative dream careers—Zach as a baseball play-by-play announcer, Kevin as a morning radio host, and Frank as a game show host. For the early career dentist (Years 1–7), Frank advises working for a couple of years, then investing heavily in CE to establish a clinical niche (like his focus on form, function, and aesthetics), and, most critically, living well below one's means while investing consistently with a dental-specific financial planner—advice that Kevin reinforces by telling listeners to "gamble on yourself." During the middle-game grind (Years 10–25), Frank recommends shedding unhappy or unprofitable procedures to embrace the "boring" but profitable, repetitive work, while utilizing advanced tax-sheltering strategies like Cash Balance Plans; Kevin shares that he reinvigorated his middle career by learning implants, which provided financial and time freedom. Finally, addressing the last third of a career (Years 25+), Frank stresses the importance of viewing the practice as a valuable asset and advises starting the exit planning process five years out, focusing on selling at the top—by knowing the office's maximum production capacity (the Law of Diminishing Returns)—rather than limping to the finish line. In retirement, Frank finds liberation in being "just Frank," free from the burden of daily high-stakes decisions, and encourages other dentists to find a new focus rather than fearing the loss of the "doctor" identity. Join the using the password "Timmerman," "Bioclear," Hornbrook," "Gary," "McWethy," "Papa Randy" or "Lipscomb!" The Very Dental Podcast network is and will remain free to download. If you’d like to support the shows you love at Very Dental then show a little love to the people that support us! Crazy Dental has everything you need from cotton rolls to equipment and everything in between and the best prices you’ll find anywhere! If you head over to and use coupon code “VERYSHIP” you’ll get free shipping on your order! Go save yourself some money and support the show all at the same time! The Wonderist Agency is basically a one stop shop for marketing your practice and your brand. From logo redesign to a full service marketing plan, the folks at Wonderist have you covered! Go check them out at ! Enova Illumination makes the very best in loupes and headlights, including their new ergonomic angled prism loupes! They also distribute loupe mounted cameras and even the amazing line of Zumax microscopes! If you want to help out the podcast while upping your magnification and headlight game, you need to head over to to see their whole line of products! CAD-Ray offers the best service on a wide variety of digital scanners, printers, mills and even their very own browser based design software, Clinux! CAD-Ray has been a huge supporter of the Very Dental Podcast Network and I can tell you that you’ll get no better service on everything digital dentistry than the folks from CAD-Ray. Go check them out at ! /episode/index/show/dentalhacks/id/39143000

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