Hiring and keeping great staff isn’t easy. In this episode of MDA Matters, John Tramontana talks with Jodi Schafer of HRM Services about the essentials of dental HR—from hiring and onboarding to managing performance and terminations. Practical, real-world advice for building a stronger team in your practice.

Recorded LIVE at the 2026 MDA Annual Session, this episode of MDA Matters features Dr. Tom Paumier, ADA President-Elect, and Dr. Monica Hebl, ADA Trustee for the Ninth District (MI & WI).

They break down the real value of membership—from advocacy to career support—and why it matters at every stage of your journey.

Are we preparing dentists for the real world?Dr. Jacques Eduardo Nör (Dean, University of Michigan School of Dentistry) and Dr. Mert N. Aksu (Dean, University of Detroit Mercy School of Dentistry) discuss student debt, career decisions, and what life after dental school really looks like.

What’s in store for the 2026 MDA Annual Session in Grand Rapids — and how is MDA continuing to raise the bar for continuing education? In this episode of the MDA Matters Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Varsanik, Chair of the Committee on Continuing Education & Events. She shares a behind-the-scenes look at how Annual Session comes together, what makes this year’s CE lineup especially valuable, and how dentists and their teams can make the most of MDA learning opportunities year-round. If you’re planning your CE strategy — or your Grand Rapids trip — this episode is your preview guide.

Meet Annie McIntosh, the MDA’s new Chief Experience Officer, and learn how this newly created role is designed to elevate the member experience. In this episode, we explore her vision for strengthening CE, membership programs, and the overall member journey — and what it means for the future of MDA support and engagement.

What services does the MDA offer—and why do they matter? In Episode 2 of MDA Matters, host John Tramontana sits down with Reva Darling, Director of MDA Services and Marketing, to explore the services and endorsed programs that support dentists beyond the operatory. From insurance and products to trusted partners that help practices save time and manage risk, this episode highlights how MDA services deliver practical, everyday value for members.

Behind every legislative win is a story—and Bill Sullivan has been at the center of them. In this premiere episode of MDA Matters, Bill shares insights from the front lines of dental advocacy, revealing how member engagement fuels progress on everything from insurance reform to scope of practice. It’s a compelling look at how organized dentistry protects the profession and strengthens the care Michigan patients rely on.