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

This week, Elvis and Barb cross the globe to chat with the legendary Marc Rondeau—a Sydney-based dental technician, educator, and yes, nightclub DJ. From being one of 30 accepted out of 300 applicants into Australia’s only dental tech program, to running one of the country’s top labs, Marc’s journey is packed with hard work, humor, and heart. He shares how a near-fatal car accident—and the brain tumor it uncovered—completely reshaped his perspective on work-life balance, pushing him to give back through teaching and advocacy. Now the Vice President of the Australian Dental Technicians Association, Marc talks about the fight to keep technicians recognized, the shift from analog to CAD/CAM, and why he believes every tech should know how to “wax before they CAD.”

* Dental Labs—The Ivoclar Flash Sale Is On!

* From November 3rd to 14th, Ivoclar is bringing you unbeatable deals on the equipment that will set your lab up for success in 2026.

* Upgrade your mill, your furnace, or expand your workflow—and save big while doing it!

* Plus, when you purchase a milling machine, you’ll get delivery, installation, and training—all included. That means your lab will be production-ready from day one.

* But hurry—these savings vanish after November 14th!

* Contact your Ivoclar sales rep today and power up your lab for the year ahead.

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 Guest: Marc Rondeau.

Already we are missing everyone at LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025. Luckily, we talked to a lot of people that weekend and can still highlight some of the amazing people we met. First up on this episode is Julia Glancey who comes to Chicago all the way from the UK. Julia talks about her journey working for her dentist father, doing a little demolition, before finally finding a home in a dental lab. Entering the industry though management, it wasn't long before she was teaching herself the lab work and getting into full arch restoration. Now Julia is working with a team remotely from all over to provide exceptional care to patients.

Next we talk to Shavit Kohen, who is a student at the New York City College of Technology. The amazing thing is that before she has even graduated, she owns Spark Dental Lab in New York City providing everything from crowns to all-on-x cases. Shavit talks about her journey, starting at the front desk, to how a current student can open a lab with all the technology.

Then for the last conversation, we pivot to bring you Christine McClymont from exocad to talk all about what they have planned for IDS week! If you are at the show, make sure you stop by the exocad booth in HALL 1, booth A040/C041 and see all the amazing things Christine talks about.

Take it from Laura Prosser, the digital marketing manager for Ivoclar North America. She would like to invite you to start following them on Instagram. It's your chance to obtain exclusive updates on product announcements, industry news, upcoming educational events, and heartwarming stories about our local team and industry professionals. Let's get social together. Simply start following us on Instagram @Ivoclar.na. We'll see you there.

Are you a dental lab in need of more talent to improve your bottom line and keep production on schedule? Are you a dental tech with great skills but feel you're being limited at your current lab? Well, the answer is here and this is precisely why WIN WIN GO was created. The dental lab and dental tech community needed a place where labs and technicians can meet, talk about their needs and connect in ways that foster a win win outcome. As a tech. If you're ready to make a change, thinking about moving in the next year or just curious what's out there, sign up today. It's totally free. As a lab, you might be feeling the frustration of paying the big employment site so much and getting so few tech candidates. We understand they don't much care about our industry. WINWINGO.com is simply the best place for lab techs and lab owners to actively engage in creating their ideal future. WINWINGO.com, how dental techs find paradise.

Special Guests: Christine McClymont, Julia Glancey, and Shavit Kohen.

The journey to finding one's true calling can be as intricate as the work itself. For Carmel Vickers-Wall, a clinical dental technician from the UK, this journey began at the tender age of 16. Initially stepping into the dental field as a nurse, Carmel's path has been marked by a series of pivotal decisions that have led her to a fulfilling career that beautifully marries her artistic talents with her passion for patient care.

In our latest podcast episode, Carmel shares her story, offering listeners an inside look into the world of dental technology and the unique role of a clinical dental technician. From her early days of doodling horror-themed art in school to contemplating a career in law, Carmel's path was anything but straightforward. It was a chance suggestion from her dentist that set her on a course towards the dental field, where she discovered a passion for helping patients and a love for the artistry involved in crafting dentures.

Carmel's journey is a testament to the power of meeting the right people and making the right choices. Her decision to pursue an apprenticeship as a dental nurse allowed her to gain invaluable experience and insight into the dental world, ultimately leading her to the realization that her true passion lay in dental technology. The transition wasn't easy, but Carmel's determination and artistic flair have set her apart in the field.

In the episode, Carmel discusses the importance of proper impressions and patient communication, sharing tips and tricks that can benefit both dental professionals and patients alike. Her emphasis on setting realistic expectations and her dedication to patient care are evident in every aspect of her work.

Make sure you visit Ivoclar at LMT Lab Day Chicago 2025. Ivoclar will be in their usual spot at Grand Ballroom A&B in the East Tower, on the Gold Level. Right across from the registration desk. They have a killer line up of speakers including:

Mariano Maurizi

Lee Culp

Dr. Shashikant Singhal

Don Yancey

Jed Archibald

Benjamin Gebhardt

Tanya Little

Aaron Johnson

Jenelle Tabaković

Patrick Coon

John Wilson

Luke LaRocque-Walker

Paul Imperius

Jonny "exocad" Jakson

Yuki Momma

Dr. Ken Malament

Stephenie Goddard

Jessica Love

Dr. George Tysowsky

Michael Roberts

Barbara Warner!

Register today!

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

Special Guest: Carmel Vickers-Wall.

Voices From the Bench is headed back to Florida for the FDLA Southern States Symposium & Expo all thanks to the great people at Jensen Dental. You know, the makers of MIYO!. Come visit Elvis & Barb in the Jensen booth June 7 & 8 in Orlando. Register today at FDLA.NET!

This week we showcase that last 4 conversations we got while in the Ivoclar Ballroom at LMT Lab Day Chicago 2024.

First up is Randi James from Renstrom Dental Studio and Carrie Ling from Lifelike Dental Studio who talk about meeting for the first time and forming an important friendship that has helped them grow both of their labs.

Then we are visited once again by David Lesh from 8&9 Consulting who gives us all the low down on gross profit margins, cost of good sales, and how labs can make a few changes to go from breaking even to turning a profit.

Following up is Nitasha Rizvi who does ALL the work for a surgical group within a DSO. She talks about going the New York City College of Technology and finding her way to be a technician and teacher at Harvard.

We wrap up the whole weekend with a stellar cast of dental technicians from the UK. Bethany Brown, Lola Welch, and Julia Glancey stop by to tell us about their experience of coming to America, comparing Lab Day to show in the UK, and what they are speaking on for some upcoming shows.

Wanting to take your knowledge and skills to the next level? If you are looking for the best education dedicated to dentistry in both the labs and clinics, check out Ivoclar Academy.

From on-demand webinars to in-person training, Ivoclar Academy has a program to meet your busy schedule. Check out all they have to offer HERE!

Whether you are looking to elevate your craftsmanship or looking to cut back costs, look no further – VITA MFT Teeth are the ultimate solution for creating lifelike and stunning smiles.

Crafted with precision and backed by cutting-edge technology, VITA MFT Teeth offers unparalleled esthetics and durability. And since VITA believes in the power of experiencing excellence firsthand, for a limited time only, they’re offering you the chance to get a complimentary case sample. That’s right, a full case, absolutely free. Just visit vitanorthamerica.com/freemft

Don’t wait any longer to start providing your customers with a premium tooth at an economy price. Redeem your free case sample and if you’re ready to buy, VITA will even give you an extra 10% discount by shopping online on their newly launched online store.

Join the VITA family today.

Special Guests: Beth Brown, Carrie Ling, David Lesh, Julia Glancey, Lola Welch, Nitasha Rizvi, and Scott & Randi James.

Are you in the market for top-notch digital equipment, such as mills, scanners, or furnaces? Well, the time to act is NOW! Ivoclar, has introduced unbeatable rates exclusively for customers in North America.

Ivoclar has made it easier for you to invest in cutting-edge digital equipment with lower-than-prime interest rates. Whether you're looking to upgrade your milling capabilities, enhance your scanning technology, or optimize your furnace performance, Ivoclar Digital has you covered.

To take advantage of this offer, the dedicated Digital Specialists at Ivoclar are ready to assist you. For details on how to get in touch, visit Voicesfromthebench.com and the Ivoclar tab to find all the information you need to get started.

Whether you are looking to elevate your craftsmanship or looking to cut back costs, look no further – VITA MFT Teeth are the ultimate solution for creating lifelike and stunning smiles.

Crafted with precision and backed by cutting-edge technology, VITA MFT Teeth offers unparalleled esthetics and durability. And since VITA believes in the power of experiencing excellence firsthand, for a limited time only, they’re offering you the chance to get a complimentary case sample. That’s right, a full case, absolutely free. Just visit vitanorthamerica.com/freemft

Don’t wait any longer to start providing your customers with a premium tooth at an economy price. Redeem your free case sample and if you’re ready to buy, VITA will even give you an extra 10% discount by shopping online on their newly launched online store.

Join the VITA family today.

GC Initial® LiSi Press is the first lithium disilicate ceramic ingot with High Density Micronization (HDM), a technology unique to GC that provides exceptional physical properties and the most natural, life-like aesthetics. HDM uses equally dispersed lithium disilicate micro-crystals to fill the entire glass matrix rather than using traditional larger size crystals that do not take full advantage of the matrix structure. The result is the ultimate combination of strength and aesthetics, making GC Initial® LiSi Press perfectly suitable for all types of restorations through all levels of transparency. Most importantly, HDM technology helps ensure the product remains extremely stable, without distortion or drop in value, even after multiple firings. For more information call GC America at 800-323-0763 or visit gcamerica.com

Special Guests: Renata Vano and Salvador Carrillo.

Are you in the market for top-notch digital equipment, such as mills, scanners, or furnaces? Well, the time to act is NOW! Ivoclar, has introduced unbeatable rates exclusively for customers in North America.

Ivoclar has made it easier for you to invest in cutting-edge digital equipment with lower-than-prime interest rates. Whether you're looking to upgrade your milling capabilities, enhance your scanning technology, or optimize your furnace performance, Ivoclar Digital has you covered.

To take advantage of this offer, the dedicated Digital Specialists at Ivoclar are ready to assist you. For details on how to get in touch, visit Voicesfromthebench.com and the Ivoclar tab to find all the information you need to get started.

Whether you are looking to elevate your craftsmanship or looking to cut back costs, look no further – VITA MFT Teeth are the ultimate solution for creating lifelike and stunning smiles.

Crafted with precision and backed by cutting-edge technology, VITA MFT Teeth offers unparalleled esthetics and durability. And since VITA believes in the power of experiencing excellence firsthand, for a limited time only, they’re offering you the chance to get a complimentary case sample. That’s right, a full case, absolutely free. Just visit vitanorthamerica.com/freemft

Don’t wait any longer to start providing your customers with a premium tooth at an economy price. Redeem your free case sample and if you’re ready to buy, VITA will even give you an extra 10% discount by shopping online on their newly launched online store.

Join the VITA family today.

GC Initial® LiSi Press is the first lithium disilicate ceramic ingot with High Density Micronization (HDM), a technology unique to GC that provides exceptional physical properties and the most natural, life-like aesthetics. HDM uses equally dispersed lithium disilicate micro-crystals to fill the entire glass matrix rather than using traditional larger size crystals that do not take full advantage of the matrix structure. The result is the ultimate combination of strength and aesthetics, making GC Initial® LiSi Press perfectly suitable for all types of restorations through all levels of transparency. Most importantly, HDM technology helps ensure the product remains extremely stable, without distortion or drop in value, even after multiple firings. For more information call GC America at 800-323-0763 or visit gcamerica.com

Special Guests: Quint Whipple and Sheila Raquel.

First up is Katie Rinaldo and Mandy Arena. These two removable technicians are trying to get the state of Illinois to make Denturism legal. Katie was on the podcast back on episode 78 & 79. They are back to give us an update on the status of the legislation and to remind everyone how they can help. Go to the Illinois Denturist website or

DONATE TODAY!

Then we chat with the wonderful, talented, and gifted Jen Ludwig. Jen (and all her amazing personality) stops by the booth to update us on life after receiving CDT of the YEAR and to talk about all the public speaking she is doing and what she has lined up.

We wrap up the episode catching up with Jim Collis. Jim is starting to look at his next chapter of his career. After a time with Solvay and Dandy, Jim has some personal goals to reach before he finds his next home which we are sure will be at a place that allows him to continue teaching, guiding, and educating so many technicians.

If efficiency and performance are what you are looking for in a milling system, then the high-performance PrograMill PM7 from Ivoclar is the right choice for you.

Equipped with a high-performance spindle, this high-power 5-axis milling machine efficiently produces both wet and dry restorations.

Ivoclar provides white glove delivery service, training, choice of service contracts and their outstanding after sales service and support.

Contact your friendly Ivoclar sales representative today and create a digital solution that’s right for you!

Candulor a dental supply company from Switzerland has solutions no matter if you are analog or digital

Check out their PhysioSet TCR tooth line that has been complemented with 18 new shapes. A total of 48 age-appropriate anterior tooth shapes are available for the laboratory or dental practice to select from.

The Swiss School of Prosthetics in Springfield, Missouri is the place to learn all things removable. America with get supported and supplied by the only authorized partner Edmonds Dental Supply

Candulor, High End Only

Special Guests: Jennifer Ludwig, CDT, Jim Collis CDT, Katie Rinaldo, and Mandy Arena.

We know the big players in digital dentures. AvaDent, Carbon and Asiga printed Lucitone 199, Ivoclar Ivotion on the PM7 mill, Arfona, and the list goes on. But behind the scenes and an amazing technician doing some amazing things with all removables in the digital space. John Madden started in a dental school's lab. Working with the faculty and students, John saw the need to take removables digital and not just dentures. John talks about the early days with the struggles and successes, all the different materials, printing vs milling, opening his own lab, and what's next for the digital removable prosthetic.

Have you seen the high prices of precious metal these days? Kulzer Refining knows that you are using less Precious metal in your lab these days, but if you send in half of what you sent in 5 years ago ,your scrap return will be higher than it was 5 years ago! You won’t believe how much money your scrap is worth right now!

Kulzer Refining reimbursement to you is after their 10% refining fee. They have zero additional fees! If you need any free shipping containers, which contain a UPS prepaid, full insured label, please visit

mydental360.com/refining or call the Director of Precious Metal Refining, Tony Circelli, directly at

(914) 906-1843. Mention the Voices From the Bench podcast and Kulzer Refining will add an extra 5% to your scrap! Kulzer Refining. Tested, Trusted, and Honest.

Whip Mix is thrilled to announce their most recent addition to their milling product line. Introducing the DWX-53DC from DGSHAPE. This powerful mill satisfies your 'NEED FOR SPEED'. Three reasons to consider this mill:

1. It has 3 times the gripping power for PMMA.

2. It mills 30% faster.

3. The integrated webcam allows you to monitor a milling project from anywhere, on any device.

Go to tinyurl.com/WhipMixRolandMill to learn how you can take your milling to the next level.

Special Guest: John Madden CDT.

Most technicians are very dedicated and passionate about what they do. That is what makes our industry so amazing. But sometimes there is a technician that we run into that is so passionate that it really stands out and shows really how amazing we are. Nicole Jackson came into this industry be seeing a patient reaction getting a crown. Finding a school in her area in Milwaukee, Nicole graduated and started in a lab. It wasn’t long before she was changing workflows and increasing productivity. After a few labs a opportunity came about to go back to the school that started it all and run the program. Nicole is now the Lead faculty and program chair of the dental technician program at Milwaukee Area Technical College. This is her story.

The Asiga MAX, the world’s most advanced lab 3D printer, offers exceptional productivity. Well over 400 labs in the U.S. can attest to its accuracy, speed and precision. With 62 micron Print Precision, the Max is optimized for both dental lab or clinic environments. Its exclusive SPS™ Smart-Positioning-System Technology guarantees every layer is formed accurately, resulting in consistent results in any environment, and its single Point Calibration makes calibration extremely accurate and fast.

As an Open Material System, you can print any suitable resin from any material manufacturer. Your choice, no strings. The Max also features the Fastest Material Changeover of any 3D printer. Labs LOVE this! Change completely from one print resin to another in under 30 seconds.

All this and the finest, most dependable technical support staff in the dental lab industry.

Call Whip Mix today or visit whipmix.com to find out more about the Asiga Max!

The fastest growing product at Gro3X are the Gro3X Aligners. Gro3X Aligners are only available from Gro3X Aligner certified labs: Why? Because they believe in the synergies that are being created between you, the dental office, and your lab. And they want to further leverage these synergies. Their aligners are used as a pre-treatment to a larger restorative esthetic case, to widen gaps prior to placing implants, to close a diastema, ease crowding, and simply enhance your patient’s smiles. Even for your Essix retainer needs your Gro3X aligner certified lab can help. Look for a Gro3X Aligner certified lab near you, such as Castle Dental Lab in San Antonio, TX (ask for Blaine), AMK Dental Lab in O’Neill, NE (ask for Anne), Staggs Dental Lab in McCoole Maryland (ask for Derrick), AA Dental Design in Murrieta, CA (ask for Frankie), and many, many more… For a complete listing of Gro3X Aligner Certified Labs go to www.gro3x.com

Special Guest: Nicole Jackson.

LMT Lab Day Chicago 2020 is only a few weeks away and Elvis and Barb have partnered with Argen to reach as many people at the show as possible. Come to the Argen booth in the East Tower, booth I16/I17 to chat with us and be on the podcast!
And don't forget about Argen's amazing speaker line up in their new lecture room at the Grand Ballroom CD North located at Gold Level, East Tower.

March 26 – 28 Dental Laboratory Association Texas Conference – Grapevine, Tx
Last year was a huge success and we loved this show. We are back this year at the ARGEN booth recording all weekend long. If you are in the area, attend. If you are not in the area, you should still think about attending. It’s worth it.

Register HERE!

Thursday March 26, the good people at Alien Milling is hosting a evening event to kick of the DLAT Conference. We will be at Top Golf for fun, drinks, and podcasting. That’s right, we will be recording at the event. How fun is that! If you are going to the DLAT conference, don’t wait. Sign up here to join the fun!

Are you excited about Chicago Lab day? Nowak Dental & Nowak Digital are! Their lab specialists will be at the East Tower booth B-47 & their Digital specialists will be at the new West tower V-2. Stop by both booths to learn about all of their offerings and to find out for yourself why Nowak is the first dealer name customers ask for. Also, by popular demand, each location will be serving our famous King Cake Vodka shots one hour before the closing of the show EACH DAY! So don’t forget to visit Nowak Dental at both exhibit halls during Lab Day Chicago. And we thank you for your continued support of the podcast.

Few things create more interest today than the Digital Denture. Whip Mix has developed a processing system for printed dentures, which uses Dentca, the first 3D-printed denture and denture teeth resins to receive FDA clearance. Their physical properties and biocompatibility pass FDA requirements and enable the printed denture properties to be very similar to conventional dentures. The material, coupled with fast and easy 3D-printing with Asiga printers and the convenience of curing with a Uvitron UV light, results in fewer dentist visits, predictable fit, re-printable data files, lower costs and excellent intraoral denture performance.

To learn how to create your own Digital Denture, check the Whip Mix website for their Digital Denture courses and for more information about the system.

Special Guest: Erin Popov RG, CDT, TE.

VOTE HERE!

We love a good story of someone following a dream or passion. While we were at LMT Lab Day East we got to follow up with past podcast guest Jeremiah Naas. We had him and his wife Amanda on about a year ago on episodes 30 & 31. This time Jeremiah fills us in on moving the family to Maine and going through the Denturist school.

Vision 21 Jan 16-18, 2020 - LAS VEGAS - Palms Casino Resort & Spa
If you have never been to the meeting get in touch with the NADL to get a special discounted rate. Either by phone at (800) 950-1150 or by email at meetings@nadl.org and tell them you heard about the Vision 21 Meeting from Voices From the Bench and you will get a special rate of almost $200 off the regular attendee price.

Voices of Dentistry Podcast Summit Jan 24 & 25, 2020 - SCOTTSDALE - Hilton Scottsdale Resort & Villas

Be sure to check out the AMAZING Nanoceramic Crystal Ultra® from Digital Dental for an outstanding alternative to full arch restorations. Thanks for your support Digital Dental!

Don't you hate restoring a poorly placed implant? "Can you make it screw-retained" and the implant is like this: /. Why not offer surgical guides to help the doctors help you. Whip Mix can help. Their VeriGuide OS Resin has been successfully tested for biocompatibility and meets all mechanical properties requirements. The resin features an easy post-processing method and produces highly accurate surgical guides with a high quality surface. Plus it can be a nice profit booster for your lab.

Special Guest: Jeremiah, CDT, DTG and Amanda Naas .

In this episode Elvis and Barbara continue their conversation with Prof. Renata Budny from the New York City College of Technology about the graduates continuing their careers and Renata's involvement with the NADL.

http://www.citytech.cuny.edu/restorativedentistry/dental-laboratory-aas.aspx

NADL Board

The path to become a CDT

Barbara also make a case about running races...

Special Guest: Renata Budny, CDT, TE.

Elvis and Barbara talk with Prof. Renata Budny about the Restorative dentistry (Dental Laboratory Technology) program at the New York City College of Technology, of the City University of New York.

http://www.citytech.cuny.edu/restorativedentistry/dental-laboratory-aas.aspx

Special Guest: Renata Budny, CDT, TE.