The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast

About The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast

The Bald Truth is a refreshing and bold podcast hosted by two unapologetically outspoken dentists who share more than just shiny scalps—they share a commitment to uncovering the unvarnished realities of organized dentistry. With a sharp focus on the critical issues facing private practice owners, hosts Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Spencer Bloom tackle topics like the growing influence of private equity in healthcare, the role of organized dentistry, and the challenges of advocating for meaningful change in Washington, D.C. Known for their fearless critiques and genuine praise of the American Dental Association, The Bald Truth cuts through the noise to deliver the only dental politics podcast with no hidden agenda. Featuring engaging guest interviews and candid discussions, this podcast is a must-listen for those who care about the future of dentistry.

Publisher

DIGRN

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

17 Jan 2025

Latest episode

10 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

10 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   10 Sept 2026

   DIGRN Presents: Beyond Dental Insurance | How PayDent Could Give Dentists and Patients More Control

   Disclosure: This video includes paid partnerships and sponsor relationships. I may receive compensation from companies mentioned. All opinions are my own. Podcast Specific Discounts: https://dentistryingeneral.com/digrn Description Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Spencer Bloom are joined by Dr. Kevin Patterson to discuss PayDent, a proposed alternative to traditional dental insurance designed to let patients budget for care, retain unused funds, and make treatment decisions directly with their dentist. Highlights The conversation explores how PayDent works, employer and employee contributions, rollover funds, reduced administrative costs, dental fee structures, patient autonomy, and how the model differs from dental insurance, HSAs, and direct reimbursement. Personal passions Dr. Patterson shares his motivation to create a system that reduces insurance interference, strengthens the doctor-patient relationship, and gives patients greater control over their dental benefits. Podcast vision The Bald Truth examines the policies, systems, and ideas shaping dentistry while encouraging open discussion about how the profession can better serve dentists and patients. Takeaways PayDent proposes treating routine dentistry as a predictable expense rather than an insurable event, allowing patients to budget for care while potentially reducing third-party involvement and giving dentists greater clinical freedom. ___________________________________________________________________ Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees. The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional. By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. This episode includes AI-generated content.

2. 

   3 Sept 2025

   DIGRN Presents: Dr. Bob Dee & Kerri Friel on Two Interstate License Portability Compacts

   Description In this powerful episode of The Bald Truth: Dental Politics Podcast, Dr. Bob Dee sits down with dental hygiene professor and examiner Kerri Friel to discuss the controversial push to eliminate clinical hand skill exams in favor of license portability compacts. They explore why these exams are essential to protect patient safety and professional integrity, and how private equity interests may be shaping this debate. Kerri offers a candid perspective from years of testing hygienists, highlighting real exam failures, clinical risks, and what’s at stake for both the profession and the public. Highlights Dr. Bob confronts the misconception that examiners profit from licensing exams, while Kerri shares emotional real-world stories—like seeing a Cavitron burn on a patient’s tongue—that reinforce the need for hand skill testing. The conversation dives deep into differences in dental school experiences, the threat of written-only OSCEs, the role of private equity in pushing licensure reforms, and concerns about lowering standards under the new DDH compact. Personal Passions Kerri is deeply passionate about protecting the public and maintaining clinical competency in dental hygiene. Dr. Bob remains a fierce advocate for transparency, ethical testing, and preserving dentistry as a respected profession—not a trade. Podcast Vision This podcast aims to spark honest, policy-driven conversations about the future of dentistry, unmask hidden influences, and give voice to the professionals on the front lines of care and education. Takeaways Hand skill testing remains a vital gatekeeper for patient safety. The move toward license portability must not come at the cost of clinical standards. Both dentists and hygienists must resist pressures to reduce licensure rigor in the name of convenience or cost savings—especially when those pressures originate outside the profession. ___________________________________________________________________ Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees. The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional. By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

3. 

   12 Jul 2025

   ADA Resolution Supports Dr. Ayer’s Lawsuit Against Zelis

   This ADA resolution calls for full support of Dr. Dennis Ayer’s federal antitrust lawsuit against Zelis and several major insurers accused of colluding to suppress out-of-network reimbursement rates. Backed by the Competitive Health Insurance Reform Act of 2020, which repealed McCarran-Ferguson’s antitrust exemption for health and dental insurers, this case may become the first real test of that law’s enforcement power. Dr. Ayer’s lawsuit alleges that insurers used shared pricing data through Zelis to systematically underpay dentists for services delivered outside their networks. If proven, this conduct violates Section 1 of the Sherman Act. The ADA resolution urges action—not just in words, but through financial backing, legal collaboration, and expert data support from the ADA Health Policy Institute. Delegates are being asked to vote in favor of a resolution that would: Equip Dr. Ayer’s legal team with ADA analytics and testimony; Advance fair dental reimbursement and transparency for patients; Push the DOJ and FTC to enforce federal antitrust law under CHIRA. This isn’t just about one case—it’s about using the tools Congress gave us to finally challenge collusive pricing practices that harm dentists and patients alike.

4. 

   12 Jul 2025

   Transparency in Dental Practice Ownership and Corporate Control: Why the ADA Must Set the Standard

   This resolution calls on the American Dental Association to adopt a national policy requiring dental offices to clearly disclose who owns and controls the practice. Patients are often unaware when multiple offices are controlled by the same private equity group or corporate entity. This resolution doesn’t ban business models—it simply brings transparency to the front desk, the website, and public listings. The ADA Board of Trustees wants to refer this to individual states. But patient rights shouldn’t depend on your ZIP code. National leadership starts with national policy. This is about trust, ethics, and accountability. It's time for the ADA to lead.

5. 

   12 Jul 2025

   Why the ADA Should Withdraw from the NCOIL DLR

   In this video, we break down why the ADA House of Delegates should vote yes on the resolution to withdraw from the NCOIL Dental Loss Ratio (DLR) model. The issue is simple: the NCOIL model creates loopholes that allow insurers to report false or misleading DLRs — and the ADA’s name is still attached to it. That’s a problem for patients, dentists, and state-level advocacy. Even though the House passed clear policy on DLR in 2024, the Board wants to wait until 2028 to make changes. We believe that’s too long to wait while insurers benefit from a flawed framework. This resolution: Withdraws ADA support from the NCOIL model now Reaffirms that ADA policy should be set by the House — not outside groups Ensures future DLR agreements get House review before they’re adopted If you care about integrity, transparency, and protecting the ADA’s credibility, this vote matters. Watch to learn more.

6. 

   6 Apr 2025

   DIGRN Presents: The Bald Truth - From Punishment to Recovery: Inside the Massachusetts Dentist Diversion Bill.

   Description In this powerful episode of The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast, Dr. Alan Budd joins Dr. Abe Abdul for a deeply personal and policy-driven conversation that challenges how the dental profession addresses mental health and substance use. Together, they explore the journey from shame and discipline to hope and healing through a groundbreaking Massachusetts law: the Diversion Program Bill. This episode dives into the very real struggles faced by dental professionals, how a void in support systems led to devastating consequences, and how years of perseverance, advocacy, and unity among colleagues led to transformative change. Highlights Dr. Alan Budd opens up about his lived experience with substance use disorder and how a now-defunct support program once helped save his life and career. As he shares, "It's a thousand-pound phone to pick up when you have to reach out and say, 'I'm human, and I can’t manage this alone.'" The podcast details the years-long effort to bring back a diversion pathway that offers confidential support instead of public punishment. Dr. Abe Abdul outlines the legislative battle, honoring advocates like Representative Chan and Dr. Jeff Loewenstein. They underscore the importance of programs like Dentists Concerned for Dentists and the newly launched URAMP, which provide a lifeline for dental professionals struggling silently. With personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a call to action, the episode is a rare blend of vulnerability, legislative insight, and professional inspiration. Personal Passions Dr. Alan Budd speaks not just as a policy advocate but as someone who’s walked the path of recovery. His passion for helping colleagues stems from a real understanding of isolation, fear, and resilience. He is deeply involved with the National Council of Dentist Health Programs, championing mental health access and support across all 50 states. Dr. Abe Abdul’s drive to protect dental professionals and the communities they serve is rooted in his immigrant background, recognizing how a single dentist can anchor an entire neighborhood. Their shared passion for healing over punishment threads throughout the episode. ___________________________________________________________________ Dentistry in General is an exclusive online community for dentists and dental students, fostering meaningful conversations, professional support, and collaboration. Visit our website to learn more about: Our Online Community: Engage with fellow dentists and students on Facebook to discuss clinical cases, navigate non-clinical challenges, and build lasting connections. Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees. The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional. By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners...

7. 

   22 Mar 2025

   DIGRN Pres: The Bald Truth - Addressing Ethics, Corporate Influence, & the Role of Organized Dentistry

   Description: In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of general dentistry, discussing the role of ethics, the impact of corporate influence, and the importance of organized dentistry. Our guest explores the mission of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), its advocacy efforts, and how it supports general dentists in an ever-changing profession. From continuing education to grassroots advocacy, we explore how organized dentistry can adapt to new challenges while maintaining high ethical standards. Highlights: The importance of ethics in modern dentistry and how it affects daily practice. The evolving role of AGD in advocating for general dentists and shaping policy. The impact of private equity on dentistry and how it challenges patient care. Why grassroots involvement in organized dentistry is crucial for the profession’s future. The need for younger dentists to take leadership roles and shape their profession. How AGD’s continuing education sets high standards and directly benefits members. A candid discussion on dental insurance, DSOs, and access to care challenges. Understanding the relationship between AGD, ADA, and other dental organizations. The importance of advocacy in protecting the profession and ensuring fair policies. Why joining AGD can be a game-changer for general dentists looking to make an impact. Personal Passions: This episode highlights the passion behind organized dentistry and the commitment to ensuring ethical patient care. Our guest shares personal experiences about why AGD was instrumental in their career and how it continues to support dentists at every stage. The conversation also reflects on the need for unity among dentists and how organizations must evolve to remain relevant in today's professional climate. Podcast Vision: The goal of this podcast is to provide an open platform for discussing critical issues affecting general dentistry. By engaging with thought leaders, advocates, and practicing dentists, we aim to bring awareness to the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry. Through insightful discussions, we strive to empower dentists with knowledge, encourage professional unity, and foster advocacy efforts that benefit the entire profession. ___________________________________________________________________ Dentistry in General is an exclusive online community for dentists and dental students, fostering meaningful conversations, professional support, and collaboration. Visit our website to learn more about: Our Online Community: Engage with fellow dentists and students on Facebook to discuss clinical cases, navigate non-clinical challenges, and build lasting connections. Disclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees. The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional. <br...

8. 

   13 Mar 2025

   DIGRN Pres: Licensure, Patient Safety, and Corporate Influence -The Debate Over Dental Compacts

   Licensure, Patient Safety, and Corporate Influence: The Debate Over Dental Compacts – A Candid Discussion with Dr. Guy Champagne, Dr. Spencer Bloom, and Dr. Bob Dee In this special edition of The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast, host Dr. Bob Dee is joined by Dr. Spencer Bloom and Dr. Guy Champagne for an in-depth discussion on one of the most critical issues in modern dentistry: the Interstate Dental Licensure Compact. As debates continue to unfold about portability, patient safety, and the role of corporate influence in dental licensure, our guests explore the complexities, misinformation, and potential consequences of the proposed DDH Compact. They contrast it with the AADB Compact and discuss how these policies will shape the future of dental practice. This candid conversation highlights the concerns of regulatory boards, organized dentistry, and practicing dentists regarding licensure reform. Are current safeguards being removed? Does this push benefit corporations at the expense of patient protection? Tune in to hear both the facts and the opinions shaping this controversial issue. Highlights: Understanding the Dental Compacts – A breakdown of the differences between the DDH Compact and the AADB Compact, and why state dental boards are pushing back. The Role of Corporate Influence – How DSOs (Dental Support Organizations) and large employers may stand to benefit from licensure changes, while independent dentists may not. Financial Conflict or False Premise? – Addressing the accusations of financial incentives behind state board opposition to the DDH Compact. The Importance of Hands-On Exams – Should dentists still be required to demonstrate their skills, or is an OSCE and postgraduate training enough? Impact on Patient Safety – Why certain states require performance exams, and what data shows about dentists who struggle with clinical competency. The ADA's Controversial Role – Examining the ADA’s unexpected advocacy for the DDH Compact and the growing frustration among its members. A Call for Transparency and Reform – Can both sides come together for a solution that benefits dentists and protects patients? Personal Passions: Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Spencer Bloom share a commitment to preserving the integrity of the dental profession, advocating for policies that prioritize patient safety over convenience. Dr. Champagne, an experienced oral surgeon and advisor to the AADB, is passionate about maintaining high clinical standards through appropriate licensure assessments. Together, they challenge the push for lower regulatory barriers and call for responsible reforms that serve both practitioners and the public. Podcast Vision: The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast is dedicated to uncovering the hidden truths behind policy changes, legislative movements, and corporate influence in dentistry. By engaging experts and industry leaders, the podcast aims to educate and empower dentists with the knowledge they need to navigate an evolving profession. The ultimate goal is to ensure that dental licensure, patient care, and professional standards are upheld in the face of political and economic pressures. Key Takeaways: The DDH Compact removes state-level safeguards that protect patients and ensures qualified dentists. Corporate influence appears to be a driving force behind the push for licensure portability. State dental boards and AADB advocate for uniform standards but reject the DDH Compact’s lack of oversight. Performance exams, while controversial, provide essential quality control in licensing new dentists. The ADA’s stance on the issue has created division, with members questioning its advocacy strategy. There is room for compromise if both sides prioritize patient protection over corporate convenience. Dentistry in General is an exclusive online community for dentists and dental...

9. 

   30 Jan 2025

   DIGRN Pres: ADA, Insurance, and Dentistry’s Future – Discussion with Dr. Bob Dee & Dr. Spencer Bloom

   Episode Title: The ADA, Insurance, and the Future of Dentistry: A Candid Discussion Description: In this inaugural episode of The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast, Dr. Bob Dee and Dr. Spencer Bloom dive into the pressing issues facing organized dentistry today. With unfiltered discussions about the American Dental Association (ADA), insurance policies, and the evolving landscape of dentistry, they challenge the status quo and advocate for a better future for the profession. Their mission? To preserve the integrity of dentistry for generations to come. Episode Highlights - A candid introduction to Dr. Bob and Dr. Spencer, their backgrounds, and their deep-rooted passion for organized dentistry. - The importance of the ADA and its role in shaping the future of the profession. - Concerns about the ADA’s transparency, communication, and decision-making. - The growing influence of corporate dentistry and its potential consequences for private practitioners. - The controversial issue of non-dues revenue and how it impacts ADA accountability to its members. - The corporate partnerships controversy—why dentists are frustrated and how it affects the credibility of the ADA. - The long-term vision for organized dentistry and what happens if the ADA fails to adapt. Personal Passions Both Dr. Bob and Dr. Spencer are deeply invested in advocating for transparency and meaningful change within organized dentistry. They believe that the ADA, despite its shortcomings, is still the best hope for protecting the interests of dentists and patients alike. Their late-night conversations, filled with spirited debate, led to the creation of this podcast as a platform to challenge, inform, and inspire change. Podcast Vision The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast aims to be the go-to source for candid discussions on dental advocacy, policy changes, and the future of the profession. Whether you’re an ADA member, a non-member, or a concerned dental professional, this podcast provides critical insights into the decisions that shape your career and your practice. The show will also serve as an "educational tool for House of Delegates members" preparing for key votes and discussions. Key Takeaways - "The ADA needs to improve its communication and transparency" to regain trust and grow its membership. - Non-dues revenue should supplement, not replace, membership dues, ensuring that the ADA remains accountable to its members rather than corporate interests. - Corporate partnerships with DSOs and insurance companies create conflicts of interest, undermining the ADA’s credibility. - Dentists must stay involved, rather than abandoning the ADA, to push for necessary reforms. - Educating both members and non-members is crucial to strengthening organized dentistry and advocating for fair policies. ___________________________________________________________________ Dentistry in General is an exclusive online community for dentists and dental students, fostering meaningful conversations, professional support, and collaboration. Visit our website to learn more about: Our Online Community: Engage with fellow dentists and students on Facebook to discuss clinical cases, navigate non-clinical challenges, and build lasting connections. DIG-A-PALOOZA: Our annual live continuing dental education event held every November, featuring top-notch speakers and invaluable networking opportunities. Dentistry in General Radio Network: A curated collection of podcasts focused on delivering valuable, content-first programming tailored for dental professionals. Stay connected, informed, and inspired. Join us today! #dentistry #dentalpodcast #dentalpolitics #organizeddentistry #americandentalassociation...

10. 

    17 Jan 2025

    DIGRN Presents: The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast - Special Edition Dr. Mouhab Rizkallah Presents DLR to AGD Virtual Advocacy Conf

    In this special edition of The BALD Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast, Dr. Mouhab Rizkallah, the visionary behind Massachusetts’ groundbreaking Dental Loss Ratio (DLR) law, delivers a captivating and detailed presentation at the 2024 AGD Virtual Advocacy Conference.Episode Highlights: What is the Dental Loss Ratio (DLR)? Dr. Rizkallah breaks down the DLR concept, explaining how it ensures dental insurers allocate a minimum percentage of premiums directly toward patient care. Massachusetts Question 2 Victory: Insights into the historic 2022 ballot initiative that mandated an 83% DLR in Massachusetts, resulting in significant benefits for patients without increasing premiums. Nationwide Impact: The ripple effects of Massachusetts’ DLR legislation, highlighting its influence on other states and its potential to reshape dental insurance across the U.S. Closing Loopholes: How the "big three" loopholes—charitable contributions, broker fees, and quality improvement activities—dilute patient care value and the strategies to eliminate them. The Path Forward: Practical advice for advocacy efforts, including steps to implement meaningful DLR legislation and improve transparency nationwide. Key Takeaways: Massachusetts' DLR law has transformed insurer profit paradigms, encouraging higher spending on patient care. Transparent reporting introduced by Massachusetts Question 2 has driven competition among insurers, improving patient value. Closing loopholes is critical for ensuring DLR regulations are effective and meaningful. Dr. Rizkallah advocates for nationwide reforms, including ballot initiatives and legislative changes, to replicate Massachusetts’ success. Tune in to learn why this pioneering approach to dental insurance reform is not just a win for Massachusetts but a model for the nation. Dr. Rizkallah shares actionable steps for dental professionals, insurers, and advocates to drive similar changes in their states.📍 Thank you for listening! Be sure to subscribe to The BALD Truth for more episodes that dive deep into the intersection of dentistry, politics, and patient care.

Podcast Authority Score: 22 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

43

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

Contact The Bald Truth: The Dental Politics Podcast

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.