When competitive eating champion meets dental hygiene student, you get a episode unlike any other. Matt Crespin welcomes Miki Sudo – an 11-time Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest champion who holds the world record of 51 hot dogs in 10 minutes and is preparing to graduate from the dental hygiene program at Hillsborough Community College in spring 2025. Miki shares her unexpected journey from professional competitive eater to future dental hygienist as she seeks long-term stability as a wife and mother. She opens up about entering the program with no dental experience, battling self-doubt and discovering genuine passion for the profession. From training with her husband (also a competitive eater) to being recognized by patients, Miki's story reveals determination behind balancing two demanding careers. Her advice: take things one step at a time and believe in your capabilities. Whether it's one hot dog or one chapter at a time – people are capable of amazing things. Guest: Miki Sudo, Dental Hygiene Student, 11-time Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest Champion Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA https://majorleagueeating.com/eaters/222 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yePLRwc607Q https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A1lvjSRNpwM
Matt sits down with Australian dental hygienist and entrepreneur Tabitha Acret for a conversation that moves from career inspiration to life-saving advocacy. Tabitha shares how she discovered dental hygiene while working as a dental assistant during law school, then built a dynamic career across clinical practice, academia, her own periodontal education company, and co-hosting Disrupting Dentistry Podcast. The conversation shifts as Tabitha opens up about why Domestic Violence Awareness Month carries profound meaning for her. She reveals the powerful position dental hygienists hold spending up to an hour with patients—creating opportunities to recognize warning signs and offer critical support. Tabitha shares practical secondary prevention strategies, from identifying signs and asking sensitive questions to protecting your own mental health when patients disclose trauma. Guest: Tabitha Acret, RDH, OM, BOH, Grad Cert Public Health, MSc Dental Hygiene Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Disrupting Dentistry Podcast (Apple Podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/disrupting-dentistry-podcast/id1534781785 National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: https://ncadv.org/ Domestic Violence Awareness Project (DVAP): https://www.dvawareness.org/ National Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/ (1-800-799-7233) Latest on Domestic Violence laws in Australia: https://tinyurl.com/mtm8es8d
Workplace violence in healthcare is reaching crisis levels – and dental hygienists aren't immune. Host Matt Crespin sits down with Jeff Schill, Vice President of Training at the Crisis Prevention Institute, to tackle a challenge many face but few discuss. With 81% of healthcare workers experiencing workplace violence in the past year, the need for de-escalation skills has never been more urgent. Jeff explains why poor communication fuels most crises and shares practical techniques like the power of breathing and allowing silence. This conversation delivers actionable strategies every dental professional can use immediately, whether in clinical practice or educational settings. Don't miss the downloadable resource with 10 quick tips for managing crisis situations. Guest: Jeff Schill, Vice President of Training, Crisis Prevention Institute Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Crisis Prevention Institute: https://www.crisisprevention.com; Top 10 De-escalation Tips for Health Care Professionals: https://www.crisisprevention.com/library/health-care/top-10-de-escalation-tips-for-health-care; ADHA Rebrands Podcast to "Hygiene Rising": https://www.adha.org/newsroom/adha-rebrands-podcast-to-hygiene-rising/
Discover your power to drive change in dental hygiene. Derik Sven reveals model legislation for dental hygiene autonomy—a blueprint hygienists can champion in their states. Federal lobbyist Quardricos Driskell shares how to amplify your voice through federal advocacy and Congressional relationships. Abby Rennau demonstrates the impact of taking action—applying for the Esther Wilkins Scholarship transformed her career, enabling bachelor's and master's degrees while teaching future hygienists. Dr. Sonika Masih shows how individual initiative creates impact through her ADHA Foundation grant "Giving Smiles," removing financial barriers for patients at Minnesota State University's clinic. Each story proves that individual action creates collective change. Guests: Derik J. Sven, MPH, MBA, RDH, CDT, FADHA, President, VDHA; Quardricos Driskell, Federal Lobbyist, Lobbyit; Abby G. Rennau, RDH, BSDH, MEd, Clinical Instructor, Central Community College; Dr. Sonika Masih, BDS, MS, RDH, EdD, Associate Professor, Minnesota State University, Mankato Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Links: https://www.adha.org | https://www.adha.org/foundation | https://www.adha2025.org
Final day from the ADHA25 exhibit floor brings conversations on collaboration, global leadership, and innovation. Amber Mendoza of Heartland Dental discusses building career ecosystems for 6,000 hygienists through mentorship infrastructure. IFDH President Jill Rethman shares the federation's global white paper series and previews the 2026 International Symposium in Milan. ADHA President Lancette VanGuilder joins Gary Pickard from PDS Health to announce a groundbreaking dental care benefit program for ADHA members and their families through PDS Health's 1,200+ practices. Katrina Sanders reveals Waterpik's Precisionist Campaign—a patient-centric approach to customized home care protocols that empowers periodontal patients with targeted self-care tools. Guests: Amber Mendoza, RDH, Director of Hygiene Operations, Heartland Dental; Jill Rethman, RDH, BA, FADHA, President, IFDH; Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA, ADHA President; Gary Pickard, Senior Director, Government and Industry Affairs, PDS Health; Katrina Sanders, RDH, BSDH, MEd, RF Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Links: https://heartland.com | https://ifdh.org | https://www.smilegenerationdentalplan.com/adha | https://www.waterpik.com | https://www.adha.org | https://www.adha2025.org
ADHA25 Podversations Saturday (Ep 167) Day two from the ADHA25 exhibit floor features conversations on prevention and professional longevity. Haley Buckner of Elevate Oral Care highlights their All Day Dry Mouth line and reveals how combining povidone iodine with fluoride varnish prevents 31% more decay than varnish alone. Ergonomics specialist Katrina Klein introduces Philips' new Sonicare 7400 electric toothbrush with thinner brush head design and advanced pressure distribution. Jen Post from Solventum unveils ClinPro Clear—a water-based fluoride varnish designed for better patient acceptance. Bennett Blakeman, CEO of K Pharmaceuticals, explains how Aquoral's lipid-based formula creates lasting relief for chronic xerostomia patients. Dr. Kyle Hubbell from Kenvue presents clinical research supporting three-step oral hygiene routines and discusses Listerine's partnership with ADHA in advancing disease prevention education. Guests: Haley Buckner, RDH, FADHA, Elevate Oral Care; Katrina Klein, RDH, CEAS, CPT, Philips; Jennifer Post, RDH, MDH, Solventum; Bennett Blakeman, CEO, K Pharmaceuticals; Dr. Kyle Hubbell, PhD, Senior Scientist, Kenvue Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Related Links: https://www.elevateoralcare.com | https://ergofitlife.com | https://www.solventum.com | https://www.aquoralspray.com | https://www.philips.com/sonicare | https://www.listerine.com | https://www.adha2025.org
Straight from the Long Beach Convention Center, Matt takes you to the exhibit floor of the ADHA25 Annual Conference. Joining him is Jennifer Hill, ADHA CEO in her first appearance on the program discussing ADHA's recent governance transformation to a competency-based board, the newly completed three-year strategic plan focusing on autonomy for the profession, and she shares exciting news about a rebrand of this podcast program: look forward to "Hygiene RisingTM" launching in October during National Dental Hygiene Month. Industry leader Linda Miller, CEO of PDT Dental. discusses her 41-year journey in dental instruments, the ergonomic innovations behind her designs, and how clinician feedback shapes product development. Hygienist Inspired Ambassadors Hali Householder and Justin Nance share their passion for recruiting the next generation of dental hygienists through chairside conversations and high school career events across all 50 states. Relate Links: American Dental Hygienists' Association Rebrands Podcast to "Hygiene Rising™" National Dental Hygiene Month 2025 Visit Paradise Dental Technologies Hygienist Inspired Program, sponsored by Delta Dental Foundation Take the Pledge! Become a Hygienist Inspired Ally
Matt Crespin welcomes Michelle Strange as co-host for a timely conversation with Michelle Lee from the Association for Dental Safety (ADS) during Dental Infection Control Awareness Month (DICAM). When the CDC eliminated its Division of Oral Health back in April, ADS stepped up to fill the gap. They launched the ADS Institute for Dental Safety and Science to oversee the dental infection prevention guidelines that thousands of practitioners rely on daily. Michelle Lee talks through the ADS's innovative "Ask ADS" AI chat tool — your go-to for vetted infection control answers. She also shares important upcoming dental infection events. Your hosts address common misconceptions in infection control compliance and the importance of moving beyond legacy errors. This episode is packed with practical insights every dental professional needs to keep patient safety front and center. Guest: Michelle Lee, CPC, Executive Director, Association for Dental Safety Co-Hosts: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA and Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH Important Links: https://www.myads.org https://www.myads.org/press-releases https://www.myads.org/ask-ads https://www.myads.org/resources
Get ready for ADHA's Annual Conference returning to California for the first time in 25 years! ADHA Director of Meetings, Leah Johnson, joins host Matt Crespin with everything you need to know before heading to Long Beach, Oct. 4-6. Discover exciting new events including Colgate's Science Hub demo, fireside chats, free professional headshots, rapid-fire education sessions, beach cleanup, and celebrations. Plus AI transforms you into a dental hygienist Barbie at the Malibu-themed reception and much more! Get Leah's insider details for first-time attendees, hands-on learning, community service events and navigating the event. From travel logistics to the Foundation's Wellness Challenge listen in to maximize your ADHA25 experience! Guest: Leah Johnson, CMP, DES, Director of Meetings & Corporate Development, ADHA Foundation Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA https://www.adha2025.org
ADHA President Lancette Van Guilder join host Matt Crespin for the conversation every dental hygienist needs to hear right now. ADHA's modernized governance structure is finally enabling rapid response to today's real legislative threats that challenge your livelihood, while ADHA pushes toward self-regulation – hear why this matters for your career. Their candid conversation addresses barriers to change – fear, mindset, and resistance – making a compelling case for why now is the best opportunity in decades for dental hygienists to claim their role in healthcare as disease prevention specialists. Lancette reveals record membership growth, new career-stage categories and new strategic partnerships. Essential listening for any hygienist ready to be part of the solution. Guest: Lancette Van Guilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA ADHA Newsroom https://www.adha.org/Newsroom ADHA At Work for You https://www.adha.org/WorkingForYou ADHA Hygienist Hub https://www.adha.org/HygienistHub ADHA CE Smart https://www.adha.org/CEsmart
When Nevada's Senate Bill 495 threatened to eliminate educational requirements for dental hygienists, ADHA and local Nevada hygienists sprang into action. In this must-listen episode, ADHA President Elect Lancette VanGuilder of Nevada together with Dr. JoAnn Gurenlian, Nevada's Karen Solie and host Matt Crespin - all ADHA past presidents - reveal the inside story of the legislative strategy and success in Nevada. Hear how tight coordination between national and state efforts paired with relentless "boots on the ground" advocacy and mobilization of the dental hygiene community contributed to the defeat of dangerous legislation that could have compromised public safety. This is a blueprint with the practical insights you need in order to stay on top of legislative threats coming to your state - the strategy, the critical importance of early ADHA partnership and proven tactics that work. With other states already in the crosshairs, this pod episode is essential listening for dental hygienists nationwide, to unite and protect professional standards and public safety. Guests: ADHA President Elect Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA; Caryn Solie, RDH, FADHA and JoAnn Gurenlian, RDH, MS, PhD, AAFAAOM, FADHA Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Workforce Growth Initiatives https://www.adha.org/WorkforceGrowth2025 ADHA Advocacy Action Center https://www.adha.org/takeaction ADHA Working for You https://www.adha.org/WorkingForYou Nevada Dental Hygienists' Association https://nvdha.com/ A Battle Well Fought in Nevada https://www.adha.org/hygienist-hub/a-battle-well-fought-in-nevada/ ADHA Newsroom https://www.adha.org/Newsroom
Malia Taylor, RDH shares her incredible journey of obtaining licenses in nine states since graduating in 2019. What started as a necessity for her during the COVID-19 pandemic became a unique career showcasing the challenges and opportunities of multi-state practice. Malia shares her insider perspective with Host Matt Crespin, including navigating complex licensing requirements, managing multiple renewals and tracking varied continuing education across states. She discusses practical realities from straightforward applications to those requiring additional law exams and extensive documentation. They discuss how the growing Dentist and Dental Hygienist (DDH) Compact will transform professional mobility. From her favorite practice location to the costly licensing process, Malia offers valuable insights for hygienists considering travel and multi-state opportunities or geographic relocation. Essential listening for any dental hygienist interested in expanding their practice locations. This podcast is sponsored by GoTu. Guest: Malia Taylor, RDH Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA
In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Emily Boge brings her passionate advocacy to the forefront as she shares her journey from pharmacy student to influential voice in dental hygiene. Host Matt Crespin engages Dr. Boge in a candid discussion about how the profession's code of ethics and clinical standards serve as the bedrock of public trust. They tackle head-on the alarming industry trends threatening to dilute educational requirements across multiple states. Dr. Boge makes a compelling case for why ADHA membership isn't just beneficial – it's an ethical imperative for every dental hygienist. Don't miss this energizing conversation filled with practical wisdom for maintaining professional integrity and navigating ethical challenges – essential for every dental hygienist committed to advancing our profession. Guest: Emily Boge, EdD, RDH, CDA, FAADH, FADHA, CDIPC Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Important Links: Emily's Hygienist Hub Article: https://www.adha.org/hygienist-hub/our-professional-association-is-important/ Standards for Dental Hygiene Care: https://www.adha.org/education-resources/standards/ ADHA Code of Ethics: https://www.adha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ADHA-Code-of-Ethics_FY24_10_18.pdf ADHA and IFDH Joint Statement on Qualified Dental Hygiene Providers: https://www.adha.org/newsroom/adha-ifdh-joint-position-statement-qualified-dental-hygiene-providers/
Michelle Strange brings 20 years of dental hygiene expertise to this compelling episode, sharing her journey from practicing across multiple states to establishing her own independent hygiene practice in Colorado. She candidly discusses overcoming resistance to her independent model, navigating complex state licensure requirements and her unwavering focus on evidence-based care and infection control. Michelle highlights how professional associations have supported her advancement in the field and offers practical advice and inspiration for hygienists at any career stage. Her story of setting ambitious goals and embracing change provides a roadmap for colleagues looking to explore new possibilities in dental hygiene. Guest: Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH, CDIPC Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA
Work culture can make or break dental practice success. Host Matt Crespin welcomes Kara Kelley, CEO of Clinical HR LLC, for a conversation about creating positive workplace environments in today's dental landscape. Kara shares valuable insights on effective communication, and helping dental hygienists understand practice owners' perspectives while advocating for their own needs. Discover how workplace culture varies across practices nationwide and pick up some practical guidance for both employers and providers for healthier work environments. Kara also cautions dental professionals about social media presence in our interconnected dental community. This important episode delivers practical wisdom for navigating workplace dynamics and building successful professional relationships. Matt also provides updates on ADHA's latest position statements regarding scaling assistants, community water fluoridation, and concerning changes to the CDC Oral Health Division. Guest: Kara Kelley, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, CEO of Clinical HR LLC Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA
ADHA's pivotal Standards for Clinical Dental Hygiene Practice have been updated for the first time since 2016. Host Matt Crespin welcomes ADHA President Erin Haley-Hitz and Crest + Oral-B representatives Beth Jordan and Andrea Johnson to discuss this momentous release. Beth, who also served as a Content Expert on the Standards Committee, shares insights on key changes including the shift to person-centered care, the importance of dental hygiene diagnosis, and evidence-based recommendations. The conversation covers the role of Crest + Oral-B in sponsoring and supporting this new revision and emphasizes how these standards serve as a crucial guidebook for all dental hygienists, providing consistent protocols for quality care while reflecting the profession's ongoing evolution. Learn why dental hygienists should share these standards widely and how to implement them in practice as a foundation for advancing oral healthcare practice. Guests: Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS, FADHA, MAADH, ADHA President; Beth Jordan, RDH, MS, FADHA, Crest + Oral-B; Andrea Johnson, RDH, MS, Crest + Oral-B Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA https://www.adha.org/education-resources/standards/
The "Hygienist Inspired" chairside recruitment program launched this week – a partnership between ADHA and the Foundations of Delta Dental. Three incredible dedicated Advisory Committee members share their dental hygiene journeys with host, Matt Crespin, and explain how this initiative builds diversity in dental hygiene and addresses workforce shortages while improving access to care in underserved communities. Learn about becoming a Hygienist Inspired Ally in this movement and how dental hygienists can inspire future professionals through direct chairside conversations and person connections. Matt shares the latest ADHA news from a busy start to 2025. Guests: Marlyce James, MEd, RDH, CDA, FADHA; Richard Robinson, BS, RDH; Ryan D. Rutar, RDH, MAM, FADHA, MAADH (Hygienist Inspired Advisory Committee) Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA www.adha.org/HygienistInspired www.adha.org/Newsroom
Hospital-based dental hygiene care is literally saving lives by preventing infections. ADHA member Katharine Martinez joins Matt during National Children's Dental Health Month to share her unique work as a prevention educator at Phoenix Children's Hospital using a successful innovative care model that other states could easily adopt. She shares her passion for reaching pediatric patients and ensuring they remain free of preventable infections. Matt also shares the latest ADHA news and some National Children's Dental Health Month updates. Guest: Katharine Martinez, RDH, MPH Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA www.adha.org www.adha.org/ncdhm Www.adha.org/events
Fluoride misinformation spreads faster than the facts. Spring Hatfield joins host Matt Crespin for an important conversation about fluoride information, identifying credible scientific sources and how to spot misinformation online. Their conversation examines how dental professionals can effectively evaluate and address fluoride misconceptions and problematic claims that are appearing in publications, online and in social media channels. Drawing on 80 years of research and public health data, Matt and Spring explore the scientific consensus on fluoridation's safety and efficacy and equip oral health professionals with tools to have informed conversations about this proven public health measure. Guest: Spring Hatfield, RDH, BSPH Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA www.adha.org/fluoride
End-of-Year Episode! Matt catches up with ADHA officers on crucial dental hygiene issues, recent concerning proposals that impact the profession, patient care and scope of practice, and how the organization is opposing and addressing these. They look back at 2024 successes and look forward at the work ahead in 2025 work on professional autonomy, recruitment, education, policy, leadership development and more. The key is involvement through membership, upcoming leadership opportunities, advocacy, events and ADHA25 in Long Beach, CA. Guests: ADHA President Erin Haley-Hitz, RDH, BSDH, MS, FADHA, MAADH; President-Elect Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CEAS, FADHA; Vice President Jessica August, MSDH, CDA, RDH, FADHA Host: Matt Crespin, MPH, RDH, FADHA Important Links: www.adha.org/news www.adha2025.org https://alec.org/model-policy/dental-access-model-act/