https://www.bonfire.com/its-all-in-the-name160/

This week, Elvis and Barb sit down with two amazing ladies who turned tragedy into triumph. When a devastating fire destroyed Denture Crafters a few weeks ago, lab manager Amber Rosema and general manager Daniele Collard didn’t waste a single moment. From the parking lot of their burned-down lab, they began rebuilding—calling suppliers, securing space, and rallying their team to get dentures back in patients’ mouths.

Hear the incredible story of how these two leaders kept their employees working, rebuilt their systems, and leaned on the kindness of another lab to get back up and running in just days. They also share what it’s like being part of an employee-owned dental lab, their quick move into digital dentures, and the importance of mental health when life—and your lab—literally goes up in flames.

It’s an inspiring episode of resilience, teamwork, and what makes the dental lab community truly amazing.

If you want to help, Daniele and Amber would love your opinion on any of the following items. Feel free to email them at info@denturecrafters.net

Drop your favorites below:

• Boil-out tanks / dewaxers (Electric if possible)
• CAM milling units
• Alcohol distiller
• Acrylic polishers / pumice stations
• Steam cleaners
• Sandblasters / Shell Blaster
• Air compressors (oil-free, quiet)
• Dust collectors (single and central systems)
• Vacuum systems (for 3D printers, model trimmers, etc.)
• Fume extractors / ventilation systems
• Air purifiers (HEPA, carbon filter, or ionizer type)
• Monomer / polymer storage
• Vacuum mixers
• Resin dispensers
• Workbenches (lab-grade, suction-integrated if possible)
• Magnifying lamps / task lighting
• Autoclave / sterilizer
• Disinfectant systems / UV cabinets
• Easy to clean flooring (think clean wax)
• Laser welders

Looking for a way to unlock the full potential of your digital dentistry workflow. Take it from Elise Heathcote, associate manager of digital services with Ivoclar. This is all about the Cam Academy. They have a new in-person training experience designed specifically for dental technicians. This hands-on course explores the full potential of programmable Cam software, helping you take your digital workflow to the next level. Learn directly from Ivoclar experts, refine your skills and bring new precision and efficiency to your lab. Cam Academy is more than a course. It's your next step in digital excellence. To reserve your spot, visit the Ivoclar Academy website or contact your local Ivoclar sales representative today.

The right CAM software can completely transform your lab’s workflow — and no one understands that better than FOLLOW-ME! Technology, creators of hyperDENT.

That’s why Roland DGA has partnered with FOLLOW-ME! North America to offer the Roland DGA x hyperDENT Bundle for their DWX-53D series mills. This collaboration gives labs optimized performance, smoother milling, and incredible efficiency gains — with some users reporting up to two hours saved per case cycle without sacrificing quality.

And here’s the best part: Roland is making this available to everyone through a hyperDENT trade-in promo for existing users. It’s the perfect opportunity to upgrade your CAM and take full advantage of the technology you already have.

Plus, Nowak Dental Supplies is participating in the promotion and adding an exclusive bonus for NOLA Lab Fest attendees: the Multiple Instances feature at no additional cost.

Don’t miss your chance to see the difference in person! Join Jordan Greenberg — the “hyperDENT dude” himself — at NOLA Lab Fest, November 7–8, and discover how CAM can redefine what your Roland mill can do.

Special Guests: Amber Rosema and Daniele Collard.

Register today!

Make sure you come see VOICES FROM THE BENCH recording from the Ballroom all weekend!

Attend the 99th Annual Cal-Lab Meeting Feb 20 & 21 at the Swissôtel in Chicago. (Connected to the Hyatt and Lab Day)
Elvis & Barb will be *recording there Thursday night during the "Cocktail Hour" from 4:00 to 6:30 *
Register today: https://cal-lab.org/annual-meeting

This week we had the pleasure of speaking with Jim Thacker, the owner of Utah Valley Dental Lab, who shared his inspiring journey from finance to dental lab ownership.

Jim began his career in finance, working at Wells Fargo before marrying into a family that owned a dental lab. Initially brought in to handle the business side of things, Jim quickly became immersed in the world of dental aesthetics. Over the years, he has transformed Utah Valley Dental Lab from a small local lab into a thriving business with 123 employees, 40 of whom are also owners. This unique employee ownership model fosters a strong sense of collaboration and commitment among the staff, ensuring that everyone has a vested interest in the lab's success.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Jim's approach is his focus on high-end aesthetics and the importance of peer referrals in growing the business. He emphasizes that there’s nothing more effective than word-of-mouth marketing in the dental industry. By building strong relationships with their clients, Jim and his team have established Utah Valley Dental Lab as a go-to resource for aesthetic and implant dentistry. He believes in the importance of kindness and fostering a culture where employees feel valued and invested in their work. Jim Thacker's insights into running a successful dental lab highlight the significance of employee ownership, relationship building, and a focus on aesthetics in the dental industry.

You are invited to Ivoclar’s IPS e.max Panel Discussion Friday, February 22nd stating at 3:00 at LMT Lab Day in Chicago. Our very own Barb Warner will be on stage with Jessica Birrell, Stephenie Goddard, Mike Roberts, Jed Archibald and Dr. Ken Malament as they dive into the world of e.max. After the panel discussion, Ivoclar will host a Happy Hour to commemorate this 20-year milestone. So, please join us by registering at Labday.com/Ivoclar.

Make sure you visit Aidite at Booth E-26 during your visit at LMT Lab Day Chicago! They will be there showcasing their exciting new products and cutting-edge solutions in digital dentistry. Attendees can explore hands-on demonstrations of Biomic stain & glaze techniques and some of their other innovative technologies. Aidite will also host engaging lectures in Grand Suite 2, East Tower, covering topics such as EZneer, 3D Pro-Zir, Digital Dentures, and their Aidite Cloud design service. Even before you go, you can stay updated by following @AiditeNorthAmerica on all social media platforms. Don’t miss the opportunity to see how Aidite is shaping the future of dental labs!

Special Guest: Jim Thacker.