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    <fireside:genDate>Thu, 14 May 2026 23:56:21 -0500</fireside:genDate>
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    <title>Voices from The Bench - Episodes Tagged with “Burnout”</title>
    <link>https://www.voicesfromthebench.com/tags/burnout</link>
    <pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
    <description>A weekly podcast dedicated to the dental laboratory industry. Featuring anyone associated with the profession from all over the world. Host are in their own dental laboratory every day making teeth and interviewing people from the industry on their time off. New episodes every Monday morning.
</description>
    <language>en-us</language>
    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:subtitle>A Dental Laboratory Podcast</itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</itunes:author>
    <itunes:summary>A weekly podcast dedicated to the dental laboratory industry. Featuring anyone associated with the profession from all over the world. Host are in their own dental laboratory every day making teeth and interviewing people from the industry on their time off. New episodes every Monday morning.
</itunes:summary>
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    <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
    <itunes:keywords>Dental Laboratory, Dentistry, Removable, Fixed, Crowns, teeth, technicians, CDT, dentures, partials, mills, printers, dentist, zirconia, emax</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>info@voicesfromthebench.com</itunes:email>
    </itunes:owner>
<itunes:category text="Health &amp; Fitness">
  <itunes:category text="Medicine"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Science">
  <itunes:category text="Life Sciences"/>
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  <title>423: Kent Kohli is Always in Pursuit of a More Excellent Way</title>
  <link>https://www.voicesfromthebench.com/423</link>
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  <pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</author>
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  <itunes:episode>423</itunes:episode>
  <itunes:title>Kent Kohli is Always in Pursuit of a More Excellent Way</itunes:title>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Kent Kohli shares how an unexpected path—from pre-dental student to passionate lab technician—led him to fall in love with ceramics and the artistry of dental technology. Guided by mentors and fueled by relentless self-education, he chose quality and growth over high-volume burnout, shaping a long, rewarding career. Now with Ivoclar, Kent is focused on giving back by helping bring hands-on education and foundational techniques to the next generation of technicians.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:09:23</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
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  <description>&lt;h3&gt;Hello voices from the bench community, &lt;a href="https://sunrisedentallaboratory.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;John Wilson&lt;/a&gt; here and I wanted to share some news about the evolution of the Programill lineup. Most importantly, &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Ivoclar&lt;/a&gt;’s new &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-equipment/programill-pm7" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;PrograMill 7&lt;/a&gt;. What stands out right away is the reduced air consumption this mill requires, but what you'll notice first is that impressive new touchscreen. For us, the biggest advantage has been increased spindle power. My laboratory's known for these larger cases with complex geometries, and I can tell you that extra power really makes a difference. Next time you see your Ivoclar representative, be sure to ask about the PrograMill 7 and tell them John Wilson sent you. Thank you.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;At exocad Insights in beautiful Mallorca, we finally caught up with Felix from &lt;a href="https://www.imagineusa.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Imagine USA&lt;/a&gt;—and the timing couldn’t have been better. As an exocad dealer on the front lines of digital dentistry, Felix shared his excitement about the strong turnout, the familiar faces, and most importantly, the innovation coming from exocad. What stood out most? The new exocad Hub and its cloud-based capabilities, along with powerful AI-driven tools inside DentalDB designed for efficient batch processing. For Felix and the Imagine team, it’s not just about seeing what’s new—it’s about putting it to the test. By running new features through their own production facility first, they ensure real-world performance before bringing solutions to their customers. Beyond the technology, Felix emphasized the value of being there in person—connecting face-to-face with partners, having meaningful conversations, and stepping back to see where the industry is headed. And of course, doing it all in Mallorca doesn’t hurt either.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;This episode finally brings a long-awaited conversation to life with Kent Kohli, a name many in the industry recognize—but maybe don’t fully know the story behind. From an unexpected entry into dentistry (thanks to marrying his orthodontist’s daughter) to becoming a lifelong student of ceramics and education, Kent’s journey is anything but typical.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;What starts as a pre-dental path quickly shifts once Kent discovers the lab side of dentistry—and more importantly, where his passion truly lives. From pouring models and grinding metal to studying under legends like John Archibald, Kent shares how mentorship, curiosity, and relentless work ethic shaped his career. Along the way, he opens up about the early struggles—working 100-hour weeks, barely making ends meet, and choosing quality over the “race to the bottom” that burned out many of his peers.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Kent dives deep into the evolution of dental technology, from the early days of PFMs and Empress to today’s digital workflows and liquid ceramics. But at the heart of it all is a consistent theme: education. Whether it’s learning from the “giants” of the industry or now helping guide the next generation through his role at Ivoclar, Kent sees it as a responsibility to pass on what was given to him.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;He also shares insights into his current mission—bringing hands-on education back to the forefront, blending traditional techniques with modern materials, and helping technicians elevate their craft beyond just production.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Rising costs, tighter deadlines, and greater demands are challenging labs everywhere. When efficiency matters, you need tools that deliver—every day.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;
&lt;a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/products/dental/dwx-series" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Roland DGShape&lt;/a&gt; milling solutions are reliable and easy to use. Just turn them on and let them run—no babysitting required. Fewer remakes and less wasted material mean your team can focus on getting cases out the door.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;With the Elevate Denture solution, step into digital dentures without disrupting your workflow. Validated CAM strategies and Ivoclar compatibility mean you're building on a system you already trust.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Ready to boost efficiency? Explore DG Shape DWX Milling Solutions and the Elevate Dental Solution at RolandDental.com.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: Kent Kohli.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>dental lab, dental technician, dental technology, ceramics, dental ceramics, crown and bridge, PFMs, all-ceramics, IPS Empress, e.max, layering, micro-layering, liquid ceramics, digital dentistry, CAD/CAM, milling, lab workflow, artistry, craftsmanship, occlusion, morphology, anterior aesthetics, posterior restorations, shade matching, surface texture, incisal edge, contour, anatomy, waxing, full contour, finishing, polishing, lab education, hands-on training, mentorship, continuing education, lifelong learning, dental school, trade school, European technique, lab culture, communication, dentist-technician relationship, chairside experience, orthodontics, ortho lab, indirect bonding, impressions, models, plaster, metal frameworks, casting, burnout, Bunsen burner, electric waxer, microscopes, precision, accuracy, efficiency, productivity, high-end dentistry, boutique lab, quality over quantity, race to the bottom, pricing strategy, lab business, entrepreneurship, startup lab, in-house lab, case planning, smile design, AACD, accreditation, KOL, key opinion leader, industry leaders, innovation, materials science, Ivoclar, Noritake, Jensen, Creation porcelain, Vita, Microstar, Zubler, Empress 2, feldspathic veneers, refractory technique, platinum foil, lab ownership, partnerships, networking, Lab Day Chicago, dental conventions, symposiums, Crown Council, Hornbrook Group, clinical education, lab-to-clinic collaboration, workflow optimization, time management, work ethic, 100-hour weeks, career growth, passion, dedication, perseverance, servant leadership, giving back, teaching, coaching, next generation, social media, YouTube learning, dental community, global dentistry, lab evolution, analog to digital, efficiency vs artistry, excellence, pursuit of excellence, inspiration, industry giants, mentorship impact</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hello voices from the bench community, <a href="https://sunrisedentallaboratory.com/" rel="nofollow">John Wilson</a> here and I wanted to share some news about the evolution of the Programill lineup. Most importantly, <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s new <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-equipment/programill-pm7" rel="nofollow">PrograMill 7</a>. What stands out right away is the reduced air consumption this mill requires, but what you&#39;ll notice first is that impressive new touchscreen. For us, the biggest advantage has been increased spindle power. My laboratory&#39;s known for these larger cases with complex geometries, and I can tell you that extra power really makes a difference. Next time you see your Ivoclar representative, be sure to ask about the PrograMill 7 and tell them John Wilson sent you. Thank you.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>At exocad Insights in beautiful Mallorca, we finally caught up with Felix from <a href="https://www.imagineusa.com/" rel="nofollow">Imagine USA</a>—and the timing couldn’t have been better. As an exocad dealer on the front lines of digital dentistry, Felix shared his excitement about the strong turnout, the familiar faces, and most importantly, the innovation coming from exocad. What stood out most? The new exocad Hub and its cloud-based capabilities, along with powerful AI-driven tools inside DentalDB designed for efficient batch processing. For Felix and the Imagine team, it’s not just about seeing what’s new—it’s about putting it to the test. By running new features through their own production facility first, they ensure real-world performance before bringing solutions to their customers. Beyond the technology, Felix emphasized the value of being there in person—connecting face-to-face with partners, having meaningful conversations, and stepping back to see where the industry is headed. And of course, doing it all in Mallorca doesn’t hurt either.</h3>

<p>This episode finally brings a long-awaited conversation to life with Kent Kohli, a name many in the industry recognize—but maybe don’t fully know the story behind. From an unexpected entry into dentistry (thanks to marrying his orthodontist’s daughter) to becoming a lifelong student of ceramics and education, Kent’s journey is anything but typical.</p>

<p>What starts as a pre-dental path quickly shifts once Kent discovers the lab side of dentistry—and more importantly, where his passion truly lives. From pouring models and grinding metal to studying under legends like John Archibald, Kent shares how mentorship, curiosity, and relentless work ethic shaped his career. Along the way, he opens up about the early struggles—working 100-hour weeks, barely making ends meet, and choosing quality over the “race to the bottom” that burned out many of his peers.</p>

<p>Kent dives deep into the evolution of dental technology, from the early days of PFMs and Empress to today’s digital workflows and liquid ceramics. But at the heart of it all is a consistent theme: education. Whether it’s learning from the “giants” of the industry or now helping guide the next generation through his role at Ivoclar, Kent sees it as a responsibility to pass on what was given to him.</p>

<p>He also shares insights into his current mission—bringing hands-on education back to the forefront, blending traditional techniques with modern materials, and helping technicians elevate their craft beyond just production.</p>

<h3>Rising costs, tighter deadlines, and greater demands are challenging labs everywhere. When efficiency matters, you need tools that deliver—every day.</h3>

<h3><a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/products/dental/dwx-series" rel="nofollow">Roland DGShape</a> milling solutions are reliable and easy to use. Just turn them on and let them run—no babysitting required. Fewer remakes and less wasted material mean your team can focus on getting cases out the door.</h3>

<h3>With the Elevate Denture solution, step into digital dentures without disrupting your workflow. Validated CAM strategies and Ivoclar compatibility mean you&#39;re building on a system you already trust.</h3>

<h3>Ready to boost efficiency? Explore DG Shape DWX Milling Solutions and the Elevate Dental Solution at RolandDental.com.</h3><p>Special Guest: Kent Kohli.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hello voices from the bench community, <a href="https://sunrisedentallaboratory.com/" rel="nofollow">John Wilson</a> here and I wanted to share some news about the evolution of the Programill lineup. Most importantly, <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s new <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/digital-equipment/programill-pm7" rel="nofollow">PrograMill 7</a>. What stands out right away is the reduced air consumption this mill requires, but what you&#39;ll notice first is that impressive new touchscreen. For us, the biggest advantage has been increased spindle power. My laboratory&#39;s known for these larger cases with complex geometries, and I can tell you that extra power really makes a difference. Next time you see your Ivoclar representative, be sure to ask about the PrograMill 7 and tell them John Wilson sent you. Thank you.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>At exocad Insights in beautiful Mallorca, we finally caught up with Felix from <a href="https://www.imagineusa.com/" rel="nofollow">Imagine USA</a>—and the timing couldn’t have been better. As an exocad dealer on the front lines of digital dentistry, Felix shared his excitement about the strong turnout, the familiar faces, and most importantly, the innovation coming from exocad. What stood out most? The new exocad Hub and its cloud-based capabilities, along with powerful AI-driven tools inside DentalDB designed for efficient batch processing. For Felix and the Imagine team, it’s not just about seeing what’s new—it’s about putting it to the test. By running new features through their own production facility first, they ensure real-world performance before bringing solutions to their customers. Beyond the technology, Felix emphasized the value of being there in person—connecting face-to-face with partners, having meaningful conversations, and stepping back to see where the industry is headed. And of course, doing it all in Mallorca doesn’t hurt either.</h3>

<p>This episode finally brings a long-awaited conversation to life with Kent Kohli, a name many in the industry recognize—but maybe don’t fully know the story behind. From an unexpected entry into dentistry (thanks to marrying his orthodontist’s daughter) to becoming a lifelong student of ceramics and education, Kent’s journey is anything but typical.</p>

<p>What starts as a pre-dental path quickly shifts once Kent discovers the lab side of dentistry—and more importantly, where his passion truly lives. From pouring models and grinding metal to studying under legends like John Archibald, Kent shares how mentorship, curiosity, and relentless work ethic shaped his career. Along the way, he opens up about the early struggles—working 100-hour weeks, barely making ends meet, and choosing quality over the “race to the bottom” that burned out many of his peers.</p>

<p>Kent dives deep into the evolution of dental technology, from the early days of PFMs and Empress to today’s digital workflows and liquid ceramics. But at the heart of it all is a consistent theme: education. Whether it’s learning from the “giants” of the industry or now helping guide the next generation through his role at Ivoclar, Kent sees it as a responsibility to pass on what was given to him.</p>

<p>He also shares insights into his current mission—bringing hands-on education back to the forefront, blending traditional techniques with modern materials, and helping technicians elevate their craft beyond just production.</p>

<h3>Rising costs, tighter deadlines, and greater demands are challenging labs everywhere. When efficiency matters, you need tools that deliver—every day.</h3>

<h3><a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/products/dental/dwx-series" rel="nofollow">Roland DGShape</a> milling solutions are reliable and easy to use. Just turn them on and let them run—no babysitting required. Fewer remakes and less wasted material mean your team can focus on getting cases out the door.</h3>

<h3>With the Elevate Denture solution, step into digital dentures without disrupting your workflow. Validated CAM strategies and Ivoclar compatibility mean you&#39;re building on a system you already trust.</h3>

<h3>Ready to boost efficiency? Explore DG Shape DWX Milling Solutions and the Elevate Dental Solution at RolandDental.com.</h3><p>Special Guest: Kent Kohli.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>420: Seth Potter: Insight Into exocad Without Borders</title>
  <link>https://www.voicesfromthebench.com/420</link>
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  <pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</author>
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  <itunes:episode>420</itunes:episode>
  <itunes:title>Seth Potter: Insight Into exocad Without Borders</itunes:title>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>This week, we talk with Seth Potter, a dental technician living a truly unconventional life—splitting his time between Canada and Paraguay while running a remote design business. From growing up on a sailboat and assisting on missionary dental trips to teaching himself digital workflows, Seth shares how he built a career with exocad rooted in freedom and efficiency. He also dives into the realities of scaling, burnout, and why creating systems—not just working harder—is the key to long-term success.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:12:50</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
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  <description>&lt;h3&gt;Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Ivoclar&lt;/a&gt;’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I&lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;PS e.max Ceram Art&lt;/a&gt;. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Alright, Voices From the Bench listeners—We’re coming to you live from Dallas at DLAT, and we had to grab a quick pop-in from the floor.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;That’s right—because when you’re walking a show this big, you never know who you’re going to run into… and sure enough, we caught up with Jordan Greenberg—yeah, the &lt;a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/hyperdent/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;HyperDent&lt;/a&gt; guy.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;No booth this time, just cruising the floor, connecting with partners, supporting dealers, and checking in with labs looking to level up their workflows.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;And get this—he’s not just talking theory. We’re talking fully automated solutions for preform abutments… no human nesting. That’s right—automation that knows your blank size, optimizes your workflow, and keeps production moving without missing a beat.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;It’s the kind of innovation that’s pushing labs forward—faster, smarter, and more efficient.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;So if you’re at DLAT, keep your eyes open… because the future of CAM might just be walking right past you.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;This week, we catch up with the always entertaining and wildly unconventional Seth Potter—live from Paraguay. From sailing the world with his family to building a thriving remote design business, Seth shares a story that’s anything but typical. What starts as a conversation about &lt;a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;exocad Insights&lt;/a&gt; quickly turns into a deep dive into faith, freedom, digital dentistry, and what it really takes to create a life on your own terms.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Seth walks us through his unique upbringing—growing up with a missionary dentist father, assisting on dental trips in the Dominican Republic, and spending his teenage years living on a sailboat. That early exposure to dentistry (and adventure) eventually led him into dental technology, where he combined analog fundamentals with a self-taught digital workflow to become a leader in remote design.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;We also get into the evolution of his career—from working in a small lab and helping implement digital systems, to launching one of the first remote CAD design businesses in Canada. Seth shares how he hustled for his first clients (hint: it involves Indeed and a clever pitch), scaled through efficiency, and ultimately hit a breaking point that forced him to rethink balance, burnout, and what success actually looks like.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Now splitting his time between Canada and Paraguay, Seth has built a lifestyle that many dream about—while still pushing the limits of productivity, workflow systems, and digital education with &lt;a href="https://exocad.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;exocad&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;If you’ve ever thought about going remote, improving your efficiency, or just wondered what’s possible in this industry… this one’s for you.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Join us at &lt;a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;exocad Insights 2026&lt;/a&gt;, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code &lt;strong&gt;VFTBPalma15&lt;/strong&gt; for 15% off.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guest: Seth Potter.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>dental, technician, laboratory, voices from the bench, dental technician, CAD CAM, Exocad, digital dentistry, analog workflow, remote design, outsourcing, dental lab, crown and bridge, full arch, implants, dental technology, workflow efficiency, productivity, systems, automation, entrepreneurship, startup, freelancing, remote work, location freedom, Paraguay, Canada, travel, sailing, sailboat life, missionary dentistry, Dominican Republic, dental mission trips, family influence, dentist father, faith, entrepreneurship journey, burnout, work life balance, scaling, clients, outsourcing design, CAD designer, digital workflow, dental software, milling, 3D printing, scanning, lab equipment, Dropbox, WeTransfer, Indeed strategy, hustle, self taught, innovation, efficiency optimization, Exocad Insights, dental education, lab growth</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!</h3>

<h3>If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I<a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" rel="nofollow">PS e.max Ceram Art</a>. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.</h3>

<h3>Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>Alright, Voices From the Bench listeners—We’re coming to you live from Dallas at DLAT, and we had to grab a quick pop-in from the floor.</h3>

<h3>That’s right—because when you’re walking a show this big, you never know who you’re going to run into… and sure enough, we caught up with Jordan Greenberg—yeah, the <a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/hyperdent/" rel="nofollow">HyperDent</a> guy.</h3>

<h3>No booth this time, just cruising the floor, connecting with partners, supporting dealers, and checking in with labs looking to level up their workflows.</h3>

<h3>And get this—he’s not just talking theory. We’re talking fully automated solutions for preform abutments… no human nesting. That’s right—automation that knows your blank size, optimizes your workflow, and keeps production moving without missing a beat.</h3>

<h3>It’s the kind of innovation that’s pushing labs forward—faster, smarter, and more efficient.</h3>

<h3>So if you’re at DLAT, keep your eyes open… because the future of CAM might just be walking right past you.</h3>

<p>This week, we catch up with the always entertaining and wildly unconventional Seth Potter—live from Paraguay. From sailing the world with his family to building a thriving remote design business, Seth shares a story that’s anything but typical. What starts as a conversation about <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights</a> quickly turns into a deep dive into faith, freedom, digital dentistry, and what it really takes to create a life on your own terms.</p>

<p>Seth walks us through his unique upbringing—growing up with a missionary dentist father, assisting on dental trips in the Dominican Republic, and spending his teenage years living on a sailboat. That early exposure to dentistry (and adventure) eventually led him into dental technology, where he combined analog fundamentals with a self-taught digital workflow to become a leader in remote design.</p>

<p>We also get into the evolution of his career—from working in a small lab and helping implement digital systems, to launching one of the first remote CAD design businesses in Canada. Seth shares how he hustled for his first clients (hint: it involves Indeed and a clever pitch), scaled through efficiency, and ultimately hit a breaking point that forced him to rethink balance, burnout, and what success actually looks like.</p>

<p>Now splitting his time between Canada and Paraguay, Seth has built a lifestyle that many dream about—while still pushing the limits of productivity, workflow systems, and digital education with <a href="https://exocad.com/" rel="nofollow">exocad</a>.</p>

<p>If you’ve ever thought about going remote, improving your efficiency, or just wondered what’s possible in this industry… this one’s for you.</p>

<h3>Join us at <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights 2026</a>, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.</h3>

<h3>Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.</h3>

<h3>Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code <strong>VFTBPalma15</strong> for 15% off.</h3><p>Special Guest: Seth Potter.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!</h3>

<h3>If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I<a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" rel="nofollow">PS e.max Ceram Art</a>. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.</h3>

<h3>Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>Alright, Voices From the Bench listeners—We’re coming to you live from Dallas at DLAT, and we had to grab a quick pop-in from the floor.</h3>

<h3>That’s right—because when you’re walking a show this big, you never know who you’re going to run into… and sure enough, we caught up with Jordan Greenberg—yeah, the <a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/hyperdent/" rel="nofollow">HyperDent</a> guy.</h3>

<h3>No booth this time, just cruising the floor, connecting with partners, supporting dealers, and checking in with labs looking to level up their workflows.</h3>

<h3>And get this—he’s not just talking theory. We’re talking fully automated solutions for preform abutments… no human nesting. That’s right—automation that knows your blank size, optimizes your workflow, and keeps production moving without missing a beat.</h3>

<h3>It’s the kind of innovation that’s pushing labs forward—faster, smarter, and more efficient.</h3>

<h3>So if you’re at DLAT, keep your eyes open… because the future of CAM might just be walking right past you.</h3>

<p>This week, we catch up with the always entertaining and wildly unconventional Seth Potter—live from Paraguay. From sailing the world with his family to building a thriving remote design business, Seth shares a story that’s anything but typical. What starts as a conversation about <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights</a> quickly turns into a deep dive into faith, freedom, digital dentistry, and what it really takes to create a life on your own terms.</p>

<p>Seth walks us through his unique upbringing—growing up with a missionary dentist father, assisting on dental trips in the Dominican Republic, and spending his teenage years living on a sailboat. That early exposure to dentistry (and adventure) eventually led him into dental technology, where he combined analog fundamentals with a self-taught digital workflow to become a leader in remote design.</p>

<p>We also get into the evolution of his career—from working in a small lab and helping implement digital systems, to launching one of the first remote CAD design businesses in Canada. Seth shares how he hustled for his first clients (hint: it involves Indeed and a clever pitch), scaled through efficiency, and ultimately hit a breaking point that forced him to rethink balance, burnout, and what success actually looks like.</p>

<p>Now splitting his time between Canada and Paraguay, Seth has built a lifestyle that many dream about—while still pushing the limits of productivity, workflow systems, and digital education with <a href="https://exocad.com/" rel="nofollow">exocad</a>.</p>

<p>If you’ve ever thought about going remote, improving your efficiency, or just wondered what’s possible in this industry… this one’s for you.</p>

<h3>Join us at <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights 2026</a>, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.</h3>

<h3>Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.</h3>

<h3>Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code <strong>VFTBPalma15</strong> for 15% off.</h3><p>Special Guest: Seth Potter.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>418: Lab Day Chicago 2026 Part 4 with Josh Williams, Savannah Elkins, Darin McCue, Vicki Thomas, and Carrie Ling</title>
  <link>https://www.voicesfromthebench.com/418</link>
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  <pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e7665600-2cb9-4cb2-b0ba-2eada9f69007/3d4ef142-c3e2-4196-aa50-caf4da94c533.mp3" length="73794081" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episode>418</itunes:episode>
  <itunes:title>Lab Day Chicago 2026 Part 4 with Josh Williams, Savannah Elkins, Darin McCue, Vicki Thomas, and Carrie Ling</itunes:title>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Elvis Dahl &amp; Barb Warner</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Live from LMT Lab Day Chicago, Elvis and Barb capture three conversations that highlight the future of the lab industry. From Savannah and Josh’s fast-moving digital removable workflows at GPS Digital RPD, to Darin McCue’s blunt reminder that labs need strong leadership—not just great technicians and how Saleslift Consulting can help—and finally Vicki and Carrie’s push to empower smaller labs through smarter partnerships and buying power with Savvy Lab Solutions, every discussion points to the same truth: adapting isn’t optional.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:16:48</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e7665600-2cb9-4cb2-b0ba-2eada9f69007/episodes/3/3d4ef142-c3e2-4196-aa50-caf4da94c533/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;h3&gt;Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Ivoclar&lt;/a&gt;’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I&lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;PS e.max Ceram Art&lt;/a&gt;. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;hr&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;When it comes to digital dentures, design is easy—manufacturing is where things get messy.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;That’s why the Elevate Denture Solution brings it all together. Built by &lt;a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/applications/dental-cad-cam" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Roland DGSHAPE&lt;/a&gt;, &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Ivoclar&lt;/a&gt;, and &lt;a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;FOLLOW-ME! Technology Group&lt;/a&gt;, it combines machine, materials, and CAM into one fully optimized workflow—so you get consistent, high-quality results without the guesswork.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Want to simplify production and scale with confidence? Check it out at rollanddga.com/elevate.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Live from LMT Lab Day Chicago, Elvis and Barb bring the mics to the &lt;a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Ivoclar&lt;/a&gt; stage for three very different conversations that all point to one big theme—this industry is evolving fast, and you better evolve with it.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;First up, Savannah Elkins and Josh Williams from &lt;a href="https://gpsdigitalrpd.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;GPS Digital RPD&lt;/a&gt; jump into the digital removable world, where analog roots meet full-on additive workflows. Savannah shares how she went from pouring models to cranking out 100+ RPD frameworks a day, learning design in record time through hands-on training and a little “YouTube University.” The conversation dives into printed frameworks, flexible materials, and the push toward becoming a full lab-to-lab removable resource. It’s fast, it’s scalable, and yes… they absolutely test durability by throwing, stepping on, and possibly feeding things to alligators.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Next, Darin McCue from &lt;a href="https://salesliftconsulting.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;SalesLift Consulting&lt;/a&gt; flips the script and talks about what’s really holding labs back—and it’s not production. With a mix of passion and hard truth, Darin explains that most lab owners aren’t failing because they can’t make teeth—they’re failing because they don’t run a business. From leadership and communication to sales and team culture, he challenges owners to step off the bench and into a leadership role before burnout or failure forces the issue. His message is clear: if you don’t work on your business, it will eventually work against you.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Finally, Vicki Thomas and Carrie Ling bring a completely different energy, focused on community, collaboration, and leveling the playing field for smaller labs. Vicki shares the story behind launching &lt;a href="https://savvylabsolutions.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Savvy Lab Solutions&lt;/a&gt;, a buying group built to give small and mid-sized labs access to the same pricing and vendor relationships as the big players. Carrie backs it up with real-world experience, explaining how vendors now proactively reach out with discounts and new products—saving time, money, and opening doors she didn’t even know existed. The conversation highlights the power of partnerships, word-of-mouth growth, and the realization that 78% of the industry is made up of labs that have historically been overlooked.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Join us at &lt;a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;exocad Insights 2026&lt;/a&gt;, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;h3&gt;Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code &lt;strong&gt;VFTBPalma15&lt;/strong&gt; for 15% off.&lt;/h3&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Special Guests: Carrie Ling, Darin McCue, Josh Williams, Savannah Elkins, and Vicki Thomas.&lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>dental, technician, laboratory,voices from the bench, digital, removable, RPD, 3D printing, additive, workflows, design, CAD, CAM, outsourcing, lab-to-lab, production, scalability, materials, flexibles, durability, innovation, leadership, management, culture, communication, sales, growth, strategy, consulting, efficiency, business, ownership, burnout, hiring, training, mentorship, community, collaboration, partnerships, buying group, Savvy, vendors, pricing, access, small labs, competition, industry, technology, evolution, Lab Day, Chicago</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!</h3>

<h3>If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I<a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" rel="nofollow">PS e.max Ceram Art</a>. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.</h3>

<h3>Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>When it comes to digital dentures, design is easy—manufacturing is where things get messy.</h3>

<h3>That’s why the Elevate Denture Solution brings it all together. Built by <a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/applications/dental-cad-cam" rel="nofollow">Roland DGSHAPE</a>, <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>, and <a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/" rel="nofollow">FOLLOW-ME! Technology Group</a>, it combines machine, materials, and CAM into one fully optimized workflow—so you get consistent, high-quality results without the guesswork.</h3>

<h3>Want to simplify production and scale with confidence? Check it out at rollanddga.com/elevate.</h3>

<p>Live from LMT Lab Day Chicago, Elvis and Barb bring the mics to the <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a> stage for three very different conversations that all point to one big theme—this industry is evolving fast, and you better evolve with it.</p>

<p>First up, Savannah Elkins and Josh Williams from <a href="https://gpsdigitalrpd.com/" rel="nofollow">GPS Digital RPD</a> jump into the digital removable world, where analog roots meet full-on additive workflows. Savannah shares how she went from pouring models to cranking out 100+ RPD frameworks a day, learning design in record time through hands-on training and a little “YouTube University.” The conversation dives into printed frameworks, flexible materials, and the push toward becoming a full lab-to-lab removable resource. It’s fast, it’s scalable, and yes… they absolutely test durability by throwing, stepping on, and possibly feeding things to alligators.</p>

<p>Next, Darin McCue from <a href="https://salesliftconsulting.com/" rel="nofollow">SalesLift Consulting</a> flips the script and talks about what’s really holding labs back—and it’s not production. With a mix of passion and hard truth, Darin explains that most lab owners aren’t failing because they can’t make teeth—they’re failing because they don’t run a business. From leadership and communication to sales and team culture, he challenges owners to step off the bench and into a leadership role before burnout or failure forces the issue. His message is clear: if you don’t work on your business, it will eventually work against you.</p>

<p>Finally, Vicki Thomas and Carrie Ling bring a completely different energy, focused on community, collaboration, and leveling the playing field for smaller labs. Vicki shares the story behind launching <a href="https://savvylabsolutions.com/" rel="nofollow">Savvy Lab Solutions</a>, a buying group built to give small and mid-sized labs access to the same pricing and vendor relationships as the big players. Carrie backs it up with real-world experience, explaining how vendors now proactively reach out with discounts and new products—saving time, money, and opening doors she didn’t even know existed. The conversation highlights the power of partnerships, word-of-mouth growth, and the realization that 78% of the industry is made up of labs that have historically been overlooked.</p>

<h3>Join us at <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights 2026</a>, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.</h3>

<h3>Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.</h3>

<h3>Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code <strong>VFTBPalma15</strong> for 15% off.</h3><p>Special Guests: Carrie Ling, Darin McCue, Josh Williams, Savannah Elkins, and Vicki Thomas.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<h3>Hey Voices from the Bench community! Jessica Love here, sending a shoutout from Utah!</h3>

<h3>If you’re passionate about creating natural, beautiful smiles—but want to simplify your workflow without sacrificing aesthetics—this is for you. I’m honored to be part of <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>’s development team introducing a powerful new stain and glaze system featuring Structure Paste, I<a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us/products/veneering-materials/ips-e.max-ceram-art" rel="nofollow">PS e.max Ceram Art</a>. Create stunning depth and lifelike color in as little as one firing.</h3>

<h3>Let’s continue to innovate, simplify, and create meaningful change—one smile at a time.</h3>

<hr>

<h3>When it comes to digital dentures, design is easy—manufacturing is where things get messy.</h3>

<h3>That’s why the Elevate Denture Solution brings it all together. Built by <a href="https://www.rolanddga.com/applications/dental-cad-cam" rel="nofollow">Roland DGSHAPE</a>, <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a>, and <a href="https://www.follow-me-tech.com/" rel="nofollow">FOLLOW-ME! Technology Group</a>, it combines machine, materials, and CAM into one fully optimized workflow—so you get consistent, high-quality results without the guesswork.</h3>

<h3>Want to simplify production and scale with confidence? Check it out at rollanddga.com/elevate.</h3>

<p>Live from LMT Lab Day Chicago, Elvis and Barb bring the mics to the <a href="https://www.ivoclar.com/en_us" rel="nofollow">Ivoclar</a> stage for three very different conversations that all point to one big theme—this industry is evolving fast, and you better evolve with it.</p>

<p>First up, Savannah Elkins and Josh Williams from <a href="https://gpsdigitalrpd.com/" rel="nofollow">GPS Digital RPD</a> jump into the digital removable world, where analog roots meet full-on additive workflows. Savannah shares how she went from pouring models to cranking out 100+ RPD frameworks a day, learning design in record time through hands-on training and a little “YouTube University.” The conversation dives into printed frameworks, flexible materials, and the push toward becoming a full lab-to-lab removable resource. It’s fast, it’s scalable, and yes… they absolutely test durability by throwing, stepping on, and possibly feeding things to alligators.</p>

<p>Next, Darin McCue from <a href="https://salesliftconsulting.com/" rel="nofollow">SalesLift Consulting</a> flips the script and talks about what’s really holding labs back—and it’s not production. With a mix of passion and hard truth, Darin explains that most lab owners aren’t failing because they can’t make teeth—they’re failing because they don’t run a business. From leadership and communication to sales and team culture, he challenges owners to step off the bench and into a leadership role before burnout or failure forces the issue. His message is clear: if you don’t work on your business, it will eventually work against you.</p>

<p>Finally, Vicki Thomas and Carrie Ling bring a completely different energy, focused on community, collaboration, and leveling the playing field for smaller labs. Vicki shares the story behind launching <a href="https://savvylabsolutions.com/" rel="nofollow">Savvy Lab Solutions</a>, a buying group built to give small and mid-sized labs access to the same pricing and vendor relationships as the big players. Carrie backs it up with real-world experience, explaining how vendors now proactively reach out with discounts and new products—saving time, money, and opening doors she didn’t even know existed. The conversation highlights the power of partnerships, word-of-mouth growth, and the realization that 78% of the industry is made up of labs that have historically been overlooked.</p>

<h3>Join us at <a href="https://exocad.com/insights-2026" rel="nofollow">exocad Insights 2026</a>, happening April 30–May 1, 2026, on the stunning island of Mallorca, Spain. This two-day event features powerhouse keynotes, hands-on workshops, live software demos, and top-tier industry showcases—all in one unforgettable setting.</h3>

<h3>Barb and Elvis will be on site bringing you exclusive interviews, plus don’t miss the FIRST 5k run on the coast! And of course, cap it all off with the legendary exoGlam Night under the stars.</h3>

<h3>Tickets are limited. Visit exocad.com/insights-2026 and use code <strong>VFTBPalma15</strong> for 15% off.</h3><p>Special Guests: Carrie Ling, Darin McCue, Josh Williams, Savannah Elkins, and Vicki Thomas.</p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
  </channel>
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