About this Episode
It's the 11th running of the Race For the Future in Fort Worth, TX on September 14, 2025. This is YOUR chance to make a difference in a industry we all love so much. Important links:
All the money goes to The Foundation For Dental Laboratory Technology: https://dentallabfoundation.org/
All about the Race: https://dentallabfoundation.org/news-events/race-for-the-future/
Race website: https://fortworth.californiatriathlon.org/
TO DONATE: https://fdlt.memberclicks.net/donor-form#/
Select: Race for the Future
Enter the name of the racer you want to support: BARB WARNER or THE CROWN JEWELS
Enter the amount (One Million Dollars)
A BIG thanks to Jensen Dental for allowing us to record at the amazing FDLA Symposium & Expo!
First up is a dentist turned sales rep and now 26 years with Jensen Dental, Nick Bathija. Nick talks about becoming a dentist, falling in love, and learning that he's not really suited to be a dentist. Starting with Jensen when it was still a mostly alloy company and being there when MIYO hit the scene, Nick can talk a lot about what makes MIYO so great!
Then we are visited by past podcast guest, Shaana Gripp. Shaana went from an introverted in-office technician to leading education at Harvest Dental. She talks about making the switch, getting used to being in front of a camera, and the joy of seeing people get better with techniques she taught them.
We wrap up the episode with a conversation with long time lab manager at Drake Dental Laboratory, Mark Stueck. Mark talks about going from a McDonald's Manager to delivery driver, being recruited to another state, being there for 36 years, and why it was important for him to give back on the NBC board.