Live from RDH Under One Roof, it’s time to raise a glass, or a SmileSip, with the unforgettable Ric Lazar, founder of SmileSip and the proud torchbearer of a powerful legacy in oral health. In this energetic and heartfelt episode, Misty sits down with Ric to explore the inspiring story behind SmileSip, beginning with his father’s pioneering efforts to introduce fluoride into Australia’s water supply and continuing with Ric’s own mission to revolutionize oral and public health through innovation, education, and compassion.

The conversation touches on everything from the fluoride movement and the challenges of dry mouth to international oral health trends and Ric’s unexpected advocacy work supporting victims of domestic violence. Along the way, you’ll learn how SmileSip is turning hydration into a health habit, why dental hygienists across the country are becoming proud Sipsters, and how a simple drink can make a powerful difference.

This episode is packed with insight, laughter, and genuine purpose. Ric’s story is a reminder that real change often starts with a bold idea and a heart for helping others. As he says, it’s not a treat, it’s a treatment.

Learn more and become a Sipster: [SmileSipUSA.com](https://smilesipusa.com/)

Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly and Ric Lazar

In part one of this inspiring Hygiene Happy Hour episode, host Misty welcomes Ellen Meyers from Forward Science to explore her remarkable journey from registered dental hygienist to innovation leader. Ellen shares her early days practicing across Texas, where her hands-on patient care experience shaped her deep commitment to preventive dentistry.

Discover how Ellen transitioned into her role at Forward Science nearly seven years ago and now helps lead a groundbreaking vertically integrated med-tech company. Learn about Forward Science's unique business model, designing, manufacturing, and supporting life-changing dental products all under one roof, and how this approach allows them to move faster, innovate smarter, and always keep patients at the center of their mission. Ellen also discusses their flagship OralID enhanced oral cancer screening device and how the company continues to transform the way clinicians deliver care.

Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly & Ellen Meyers Part One

In part two, Ellen dives deep into Forward Science's newest breakthrough: Periostom, an FDA-cleared, non-drug treatment that's revolutionizing periodontal therapy. Powered by chitosan, a naturally derived biopolymer with proven antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, Periostom functions as a site-specific "liquid band-aid" that coats infected pockets, repels biofilm, and promotes natural healing.

Ellen takes us through the fascinating years-long journey from initial concept to clinical reality, revealing how dental hygienists played a pivotal role in Periostom's development process. Learn why this innovative treatment is already being hailed as a game-changer for treating gum disease and protecting dental implants, and discover how chitosan's long history of medical applications is now making its mark in dentistry. This episode offers valuable insights into the future of periodontal care and the power of hygienist-driven innovation.

Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly & Ellen Meyers Part Two

Welcome to Hygiene Happy Hour, where insight meets laughter, leadership meets authenticity, and meaningful conversations unfold with honesty and heart.

Hosted by Misty Mattingly, a trailblazing dental leader, speaker, and advocate for innovation in healthcare, and Derik Sven, an entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for personal development, this show is about real people navigating real growth. Together, they explore the intersections of leadership, wellness, technology, creativity, and the human side of success.

This episode feels like sitting down with two friends who just get it,  the ones who tell it like it is, who’ve been through it, and who want you to walk away inspired, informed, and maybe even laughing a little. Whether they’re breaking down the latest trends in dentistry, diving into workplace culture, or sharing lessons learned from failure and resilience, Misty and Derik create a space that’s refreshing, empowering, and deeply relatable.

From candid personal stories to thought-provoking guest interviews, every conversation invites listeners to think bigger, live braver, and lead with purpose.


Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly and Derik Sven

In this lively episode of Hygiene Happy Hour, Misty welcomes the amazing Liz Nies, dental hygiene leader, educator, and national speaker for PerioProtect, for a conversation that’s equal parts educational, inspiring, and just plain fun. With a glass of wine in hand and laughter in the air, Misty and Liz dive deep into the heart of preventive oral care and the evolving role of hygienists in modern dentistry.

Liz shares her journey from clinical practice to becoming a passionate advocate for at-home gum care through Perio Protect, a revolutionary system designed to fight gum disease, reduce inflammation, and promote fresher breath and brighter smiles. Together, they explore the powerful oral-systemic connection, discussing how what happens in the mouth impacts the entire body, from heart health to immunity.

Liz also gives listeners a peek behind the scenes at PerioProtect’s upcoming innovations, including a new remineralization gel designed to make home care even more effective and enjoyable. By the end, you’ll be smiling, inspired, and maybe even ready to raise your glass to the power of proactive hygiene care. Cheers to brighter smiles, healthier gums, and the passionate professionals leading the way! 🥂

Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly & Liz Nies

On this episode of Hygiene Happy Hour, host Misty Mattingly welcomes Cydian Kaufman from Pure Water Northwest to explore an often-overlooked topic in dentistry: the water that flows through our dental units. What starts as a chat about water systems quickly turns into a fascinating deep dive into biofilms, bacteria, and the hidden science of water quality. With humor and insight, Misty and Cydian uncover why waterline maintenance matters more than ever, for both patient safety and overall dental hygiene.

Cydian shares his unexpected journey from tech and real estate into the world of water treatment, where he discovered just how complex and “alive” water really is. He explains how stagnant water in dental lines can become a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, why shocking waterlines isn’t always enough, and how new solutions like chlorination, UV, and ozone systems can make a real difference. Together, they connect the dots between oral biofilms and water system biofilms, showing how both impact human health in surprisingly similar ways.

With a glass of The Prisoner wine in hand, Melissa brings her signature warmth and curiosity to the conversation, making even the chemistry of water feel approachable and fun. Whether you’re a dental professional looking to improve your infection control protocols or just someone curious about what’s really in your water, this episode offers practical insights, laughter, and a refreshing reminder that clean water and clean smiles go hand in hand.

Hygiene Happy Hour with Misty Mattingly and Cydian Kauffman

I'm Misty Mattingly, the creator of Hygiene Happy Hour, a podcast that brings together fun and education in the dental hygiene world. My love for dental hygiene has fueled my passion for advancing patient care and innovative practices. As an international speaker, I share insights on technology and advancements in dentistry. Balancing a dynamic professional life, I'm also a devoted mom to three and a partner to my husband, Brenden, channeling my nurturing spirit into mentoring. With accolades such as the Women in DSO Winner 2023 and Denobi nomination 2024, my commitment extends beyond professional achievements. Striving to improve the dental community for patients and professionals.