Best Alan Brian And Sam Podcasts (2025)

1
Retrotopia Talks Fire Emblem: The Blazing Blade 1:54:01

1h ago1:54:01

1:54:01

Join Sam and Alan as they dive into the world of Game Boy Advance strategy RPGs! In this episode, they explore gameplay mechanics, story elements, and what makes this classic title a standout in the genre. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to tactical adventures, this discussion has something for every retro gaming enthusiast. Find us on Social …

1
RetroBytes: Internet, Games, and Streaming 1:31:09

5h ago1:31:09

1:31:09

We are back again this month discussing whether single-player games should require internet to play, as well as reminiscing over some of the games we've discussed, spinning the wheel of discussion, and wrapping it up with streaming services and their effects on the TV viewing experience. MERCH!!!! teepublic.com/user/retrotopia-podcast Join our Patr…

1
Very Dental: Buffer Like a Pro with Dr. Jason Goodchild 30:57

1d ago30:57

30:57

Recorded live at the Chicago Midwinter meeting in February 2025, this episode features Alan in conversation with Dr. Jason Goodchild from Premier Dental. Jason provides an in-depth look at three innovative new products designed to enhance everyday restorative dentistry. They discuss Veneer Now, an injectable matrix system for creating predictable a…

1
Very Clinical: Anterior Guidance and Other Occlusion Myths with Dr. Brian Baliwas 16:01

4d ago16:01

16:01

Today's throwback episode features an in person interview with Dr. Brian Baliwas...the one and only @sfdentalnerd! Zach and Kevin were asking about dental myths and Brian delivered! The discussion navigated through occlusion myths and explores contemporary approaches to occlusion. Brian shares insights from his education at the Kois Center, advocat…

1
Brain Trust: Hygiene Beyond the Prophy Cup with Dr. Sam Low and Michael Kaelberer 43:58

5d ago43:58

43:58

In this episode of The Brain Trust, Alan has a great conversation with Dr. Sam Low and Michael Kaelberer of Vakker Dental to discuss advanced dental hygiene technologies and their integration into contemporary dental practices. Dr. Low, a seasoned veteran in dental education, sheds light on the transition from traditional methods to innovative tech…

1
Retrotopia Ranks the Mainline Final Fantasy Games 1:25:47

6d ago1:25:47

1:25:47

Brian is ranking the mainline Final Fantasy games this week since Alan and Sam needed a bit to finish next week's game. Join him as he goes through all 16 mainline Final Fantasy games and puts them in order from the ones he likes the least to the ones he likes the most. Please rate the show, preferably 5-star, which helps us become more visible to …

1
Very Dental: Splitting the Wedge with Dr. Matt Burton 31:13

8d ago31:13

31:13

Alan had a chance to sit down with Dr. Matt Burton for a fascinating discussion about his journey from a practicing dentist to a dental inventor. Dr. Burton shares the "aha!" moment that led to the creation of his split wedge concept (now part of Garrison's Quad Matrix system), the challenges of starting his own company, and the eventual partnershi…

1
Very Clinical: Dental Photography for Fun and Profit with Dr. Melissa Zettler 31:49

11d ago31:49

31:49

In this throwback episode, Dr. Melissa Zettler talks about photography and how it has affected her clinical dentistry and marketing. This interview happened a few years before she received her AACD Fellowship (just last month!) and give you a peek into what it takes to photograph AACD cases! Melissa and the guys explore different types of dental ca…

1
AME: The Outrage Machine with Dr. Dawn Grimes 38:33

12d ago38:33

38:33

This throwback episode of the Alan Mead Experiences features a conversation with Dr. Dawn Grimes about the stuff that we let in to our brains. The discussion delves into Alan's recent transition to a three-day clinical week, the challenges of staffing, and the surprising mental toll of early mornings and long days. This leads to a deeper exploratio…

1
Retrotopia Talks The Last of Us 1:53:54

14d ago1:53:54

1:53:54

A game that tells the tale of a man who lost his whole world, and a girl who has no one in her team, uniting and taking on the challenges of a land ravaged by a virus that turns people into noise-making mushrooms. This is The Last of Us, and we dive into the story and the game itself this week on Retrotopia. Join in on the discussion on Patreon for…

1
Very Dental: Revolutionize Your Hygiene Department with Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz 43:08

15d ago43:08

43:08

Alan is joined by the incomparable Dr. Pam Maragliano-Muniz for an in person conversation recorded at the Chicago Midwinter meeting! They discuss Pam's journey from being a dental hygienist to a prosthodontist, her insights on maintaining patient care continuity and navigating the challenges faced by dental professionals, including staffing issues …

1
Special Revisit: Quick Play Castlevania The Adventure 22:09

16d ago22:09

22:09

With it being Symphony of the Night on the main show, we figured we'd release one of our earliest Quick Plays to the public. On this Quick Play, Alan, our resident Castlevaniac, is talking about the GameBoy game, Castlevania The Adventure. Listen to all our Quick Plays for FREE by join our at patreon.com/retrotopia Find us on Social Media at linktr…

1
Very Clinical: A Love/Hate Relationship with Night Guards 37:24

18d ago37:24

37:24

In this throwback episode, Kevin and Zach are joined by their one time co-host Dr. Mac Jones to tackle the listener-requested topic of night guards and bite guards. The guys dive into their vastly different philosophies and approaches to fabricating and prescribing occlusal guards. Kevin represents the "pro" side, detailing his workflow involving s…

1
Brain Trust: You've Got to Pay Your Dues! 47:31

20d ago47:31

47:31

One of the best things about the Dental Hacks podcast was our Brain Trust segment! Several Very Dental people sitting around talking shop. And now...it's back! Alan is joined by OG Brain Trust members Dr. Dawn Grimes, Dr. Frank Clayton and Dr. Melissa Zettler to discuss the evolution of their careers in dentistry. They delve into their early experi…

1
Retrotopia Talks Castlevania Symphony of the Night 1:45:30

21d ago1:45:30

1:45:30

The poll was set, and the Patreon members voted. We took to our systems to play one of the most beloved PlayStation 1 games, which Alan ranks near the top of his all-time list. Is this the opinion of all of us? Join us for the discussion to find out. Find our merchandise at TeePublic.com/Retrotopia JOIN OUR PATREON TO TAKE PART IN POLLS AND MUCH MO…

1
Very Dental: Dr. Richard Golden on Real-World Efficiency and Physics Forceps 35:42

23d ago35:42

35:42

In this in-person episode recorded at GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan, Alan once again sits down with the visionary Dr. Richard Golden. Following up on their previous conversation about Dr. Golden's journey as a dentist and multiple practice owner, this discussion dives deep into his passion for training dentists to thrive in the real world. Dr. …

1
Very Clinical: Glad We Medit! Scanners and Software with Scott Shrader 41:12

26d ago41:12

41:12

Kevin and Zach welcome back Scott Shrader to talk digital dentistry and specifically about Medit scanners and software. Both Zach and Al are current Medit users so the episode is a great one if you're new to scanning or want to incorporate digital dentistry into your workflow even more! 3D Dentist Approach: While courses often involve scanners, 3D …

1
AME: Live Patient Hands On CE in the Motor City with Dr. Ara Nazarian 11:59

27d ago11:59

11:59

Alan is joined by Dr. Ara Nazarian an in person recording at GoldenDent in Roseville, MI! Ara teaches extraction and grafting techniques featuring the Physics Forceps that were developed by the one and only Dr. Richard Golden! Ara took a couple minutes away from teaching to fill me in on the experience you'll get taking their course. I can't wait u…

1
Retrotopia Talks Final Fantasy IV 1:48:21

28d ago1:48:21

1:48:21

This game first appeared on the Super Nintendo under Final Fantasy II and is a beloved classic JRPG fan favourite. Sam and Brian took to the Pixel Remaster to play it and enter the world of crystals, monsters, and moon people. Join us as they discuss this classic game. MERCH: TEEPUBLIC.COM/RETROTOPIA There are shirts, hoodies, mugs, stickers, and m…

1
Very Dental: Advertising, Insurance and the Golden Age of Dentistry with Dr. Richard Golden 37:46

30d ago37:46

37:46

In this episode of the Very Dental Podcast Alan interviews Dr. Richard Golden of GoldenDent in Roseville, Michigan. Dr. Golden is known for developing the "Physics Forceps" and GoldenDent provides extensive hands-on training in extractions, grafting, and implant placement, utilizing local facilities like Wayne County Community College for live pati…

1
RetroBytes: Taking our turn on the Switch 2 1:55:37

1M ago1:55:37

1:55:37

Yes, it's been a month since the Direct, but we aren't about that first-to-the-internet reaction style of commentary. We've taken some time to let the news simmer and waited for more information to leak out. Of course, that means this month we'll be leaning heavily on our thoughts on the Switch 2, its games, its features, and anything we could find…

1
Very Clinical: How to Integrate Technology with Scott Shrader 35:24

1M ago35:24

35:24

Kevin and Zach, along with Alan welcome Scott Shrader from 3D Dentists to the podcast! Scott shares his journey from general sales into dental implant and equipment sales. Now part of the 3D Dentist team, Scott focuses on partnerships and the technology division, guiding dentists through the complexities of selecting and implementing digital tools …

1
AME: Two Years on Three Days 31:39

1M ago31:39

31:39

Recorded amidst the sounds of spring on the dock in his pond, Alan dives deep into his experience shifting from a 4-day to a 3-day clinical work week two years ago. Alan breaks down the motivations, the schedule change specifics, and offers a candid list of pros and cons he's observed over the past two years. Join the Very Dental Facebook group usi…

1
Retrotopia Talks: The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds 1:40:18

1M ago1:40:18

1:40:18

The boys are back together, and this week, they are talking about the very loved but often overlooked 3DS Zelda game A Link Between Worlds. Return with us to Hyrule from the bygone era of 1991 as we discuss what is familiar and what is new. GET SOME MERCH at teepublic.com/retrotopia-podcast Find us on Social Media at linktr.ee/retrotopia Join our P…

1
Very Dental: Dr. Russell Schafer is Selling Out! 25:52

1M ago25:52

25:52

Alan is once again joined by the incomparable Dr. Russell Schafer! This time Al and Russ are in person in the fishbowl at the Chicago Midwinter dental meeting! The two of them chat about Chicago weather, what they're looking forward to seeing at the meeting and most importantly...Russ wants you to buy his practice! If you've ever wanted to experien…

1
Very Clinical: Stacking Up the Benefits of CareStack with Jamie Flanagan 36:55

1M ago36:55

36:55

In another Zachless episode, Kevin is joined by Missy Fryer, Al and special guest Jamie Flanagan from CareStack for a candid discussion about their practice's transition to the CareStack dental software platform. They move beyond the hype to share their specific experiences, highlighting the intuitive interface, the power of the real-time dashboard…

1
AME: Leftover Scallions 18:45

1M ago18:45

18:45

Alan takes a trip down memory lane, revisiting "The Scallion," a satirical dental news project he and colleagues created (inspired by The Onion) back in the Dental Hacks era (circa 2017-2018). In this episode, Alan reads several archived "Scallion" articles, finding they still hold up with humor poking fun at: Aggressive sales reps at dental meetin…

1
Retrotopia Talks NHL '94 1:22:41

1M ago1:22:41

1:22:41

This classic hockey game, which adorned both the SNES and Genesis, is loved by many and regarded as one of the best sports games in video game history. Join Brian and Sam as they discuss this game while it's being played on Twitch. Join in on the conversation and submit comments at patreon.com/retrotopia Please find us on social media at linktr.ee/…

1
Very Dental: Katrina Klein, RDH on Protecting Your Career with Dental Ergonomics 27:00

1M ago27:00

27:00

Today's episode is another one that was recorded live at the Chicago Midwinter Meeting! Alan Mead chats with renowned dental ergonomics expert Katrina Klein. Katrina shares her incredible journey from just starting out to becoming a leading voice in the field, emphasizing the critical role of ergonomics in career longevity. Discover why this often-…

1
Very Clinical: A CareStack Story with Jamie Flanagan of CareStack 37:54

2M ago37:54

37:54

In today's Zachless episode, Kevin is joined Alan, along with co-hosts Missy Fryer and Jamie Flanagan of CareStack! They Share insights on transitioning to CareStack, a cloud-based practice management software. The conversation covers initial fears, benefits of the system, and the comprehensive support provided by CareStack during the switch. Jamie…

1
AME: On Mountain Biking and Being Influenced 33:05

2M ago33:05

33:05

Alan shares a personal milestone (achieving a fitness age of 50!) and dives into his love for mountain biking – an exercise that feels like playing. He uses his experience to draw a powerful analogy between the often extreme portrayal of mountain biking on social media and the curated "highlight reel" often seen in the dental world online. Alan dis…

1
Retrotopia Talks Brian's Top 10 RPGs He Wants to Play, But Hasn't Yet 1:07:05

2M ago1:07:05

1:07:05

Brian got inspired when Sam talked about Beloved Rapture on our show AND the Still Loading Podcast (check it out wherever you get your podcasts). With that, Brian took to making his list of RPGs he wants to play but hasn't played yet. So, nothing Chrono Trigger, nothing Final Fantasy, just good ol' RPGs he missed. STILL LOADING PODCAST - BELOVED RA…

1
Very Dental: A Recipe for Implant Dentistry Success with Dr. Tim Kosinski 29:49

2M ago29:49

29:49

Recorded live from the CDS Midwinter Meeting Podcast Lounge, Alan had a great conversation with veteran implant dentist and educator, Dr. Tim Kosinski! With nearly four decades and over 20,000 implants placed, Dr. Kosinski shares his "recipe for success," emphasizing critical thinking, foundational knowledge, and the importance of mentorship in the…

1
Very Clinical: Planting Seeds and Placing Implants with Dr. Adam Frounfelter 39:13

2M ago39:13

39:13

In this throwback episode of Very Clinical Kevin and Zach are joined by Dr. Adam Frounfelter! Adam and Kevin teach hands on implants together at 3D Dentists! Key takeaways: Overview of the 3D Dentist Implant Continuum Key Aspects of Implant Planning and Placement (Crown-Down Approach) Extraction and Grafting Considerations Utilizing PRF and Sticky …

1
AME: From Curing Lights to Killer Reads (a Recommendation Engine) 34:41

2M ago34:41

34:41

Fresh off a spring break road trip Alan has some dental and non-dental recommendations! Some links from the show: Loop Curing Light from Garrison Dental Solutions If you're buying Garrison stuff use code SO1124MEAD for 10% off any non-curing light product and $100 credit off a future purchase if you buy a curing light! "The Era of Smart Curing Ligh…

1
Retrotopia Talks a Taz-Mania Double Feature 1:54:47

2M ago1:54:47

1:54:47

Alan and Sam are at it again with two games for the price of none. This week they are discussing the games Taz-Mania and Tax in Escape from Mars. Join our Patreon for FREE at patreon.com/retrotopia Find us on Social Media at linktr.ee/retrotopiaBy Alan, Brian, and Sam

1
Very Dental: A Conversation with The Badass Hygienist (aka: Melissa Obrotka) 39:02

2M ago39:02

39:02

Alan was joined by the incomparable Melissa Obrotka, also known as "The Badass Hygienist!" They recorded this conversation live at the Chicago Midwinter Dental Meeting. The episode dives deep into Melissa's journey in dental hygiene, her passion for progressive care, and her insights on the current state and future of the profession. Melissa shares…

1
Very Clinical: Difficult Crown Preps (and other student questions) 38:07

2M ago38:07

38:07

Kevin and Zach are once again joined by Very Dental Student Mo and Very Dental's Al to answer student questions! Topics: Managing Difficult Crown Preparations Managing Team Conflicts Referring vs. Attempting Extractions Recommended CE Courses for New Dentists Tricks for Achieving Perfect Posterior Composite Contacts Join the Very Dental Facebook gr…

1
RetroBytes: Release Perfection 1:54:27

2M ago1:54:27

1:54:27

Join us this month as Brian gets a little heated about the news. When is the best time to announce a game? What do you folk have to say? Are these games really perfect? Do you want an extra topic? Join our Patreon for FREE to get this show half a month early, with an additional topic at patreon.com/retrotopia where you can join for FREE! Find us on…

1
Very Dental Student: Managing Difficult Patients 36:01

2M ago36:01

36:01

Mohamed is back with Kevin, Zach and Al to pose dental student questions to these grizzled veterans. The guys start out with a raucous discussion of NCAA brackets and what's wrong with basketball but then move to answering questions from curious dental students! Some key topics of discussion: Post-Op Sensitivity: What are your protocols for managin…

1
Retrotopia Talks Beloved Rapture 1:16:25

2M ago1:16:25

1:16:25

Join Sam as he goes solo this episode and talks about the retro inspired RPG available on STEAM, Beloved Rapture. Join our Patreon at patreon.com/retrotopia Find us on Social Media at linktr.ee/retrotopiaBy Alan, Brian, and Sam

1
Very Dental: Making Dental Insurance Sexy with Teresa Duncan 44:18

2M ago44:18

44:18

Alan recently sat down with Teresa Duncan at the Chicago Midwinter Dental meeting! Teresa is an expert in dental insurance and dental office management. The conversation dives into the often-overlooked but critical aspects of dental practice, including insurance compliance, the evolving role of AI in administrative tasks, financial discussions with…

1
Very Clinical: Dental Pet Peeves 33:28

2M ago33:28

33:28

Could this be the most relatable episode we've ever recorded? Zach, Kevin, and Alan unleash their pent-up frustrations with common patient behaviors that drive them absolutely bonkers. From anatomical annoyances to baffling patient logic, no pet peeve is spared. Get ready to laugh and nod in agreement as they share their most outrageous clinical ex…

1
AME: The Incidental Finding 23:53

2M ago23:53

23:53

Alan shares a personal and frustrating experience involving his son, Jacob, and an unexpected medical finding. He reflects on the complexities of the medical system, the challenges of incidental findings, and his concerns about the current state of healthcare. Join the Very Dental Facebook group using the password "Timmerman," Hornbrook" or "McWeth…

1
Retrotopia Talks Yoshi's Story 1:01:21

2M ago1:01:21

1:01:21

Yoshi returns from his Island adventure on the Super Nintendo to star in his first outing on the Nintendo 64 in this colourful and quirky platfomer. Join Sam and Brian as they discuss the Story of Yoshi and his friends as they search for fruit to make themselves happy. Join us on Patreon for FREE at patreon.com/retrotopia Find us on social media at…

1
Very Dental: Creating Furniture to Support Dentists with Steven Haaksma 34:23

2M ago34:23

34:23

Alan is joined at the Chicago Midwinter meeting by Steven Haaksma of BQE or "Back Quality Ergonomics." Alan has used a bunch of their stools over the years and is a big fan of the ergonomic products that Steven's company has created. Key Takeaways: BQE = Back Quality Ergonomics: The meaning behind the company name. Dutch Roots, American Story: Stev…

1
Very Clinical: Kevin is (Care) Stacked! 41:34

3M ago41:34

41:34

"I want this to run like a real business, and if that's what it takes to run it, I know that I'll get the revenue back." -- Kevin on investing in CareStack. Today, the Very Clinical guys dive into the world of dental practice management software. Kevin, Zach and Al discuss their first experiences with computers, their current software choices, and …

1
AME: Do Something 23:57

3M ago23:57

23:57

Alan reflects on the importance of "doing something" when it comes to emotional health, contrasting it with his earlier philosophy of "don't just do something, sit there" in the context of dental diagnosis. He shares a personal story about his son's music competition and how his own emotional reaction led him to realize the power of action in manag…

1
Retrotopia Talks Final Fantasy XIII 1:25:06

3M ago1:25:06

1:25:06

Welcome to another episode of Retrotopia. We typically like to get together and discuss games, but lately, we've been having trouble lining up our schedules. This week, Alan takes to the mic himself and talks about his time in L'Cie and gives his thoughts on one of the more controversial Final Fantasy games, number thirteen. Some people like it, ot…

1
Very Dental: Understanding Authenticity with Dr. Charlotte Drumi 37:51

3M ago37:51

37:51

Alan is joined by Dr. Charlotte Drumi for an "in person" recording from the recent Chicago Midwinter Meeting! She's a young dentist with an old soul and Alan learned a lot from this conversation! They discuss Charlotte's journey from documenting her dental school experience on Instagram to becoming a recognized content creator in the dental field. …

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Alan Brian And Sam Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen