The Fulcrum Podcast
A podcast of the Virginia Dental Association
The Fulcrum Podcast serves as a dynamic platform where various important topics, especially those affecting dental providers and patients, are explored through thoughtful discussion and personal perspectives. The name "The Fulcrum" reflects the concept of a central point of connection, much like the pivotal connection between a dental professional and their patient. Each episode anchors a key theme relevant to the dental community, yet the content is ever-evolving, offering a range of insights from different contributors. This includes human interest stories, discussions on the legislative process, and in-depth conversations about pressing issues like workforce challenges. With diverse perspectives and engaging storytelling, The Fulcrum Podcast aims to provide valuable insights that go beyond what you might read in a traditional article.
The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only, and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. This podcast should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice.
The Fulcrum Podcast
Episode 19 - The Drill, DECEMBER 2025
In this episode, Ryan Dunn, CEO at the Virginia Dental Association (VDA), is joined by Paul Logan, the VDA’s Director of Strategic Initiatives. They discuss the VDA's focused advocacy efforts in anticipation of the 2026 General Assembly. Specifically, they highlight a 'three-legged stool' approach: advocating for increased budget for dental workforce programs, creating an expedited licensure path for internationally trained dentists to practice hygiene, and introducing a preventative assistant role to alleviate workforce shortages. The discussion emphasizes the complexity of dental workforce issues, the existing shortages, and the strategic initiatives required to address these problems. The episode also outlines upcoming legislative advocacy events and encourages VDA members to participate actively.
HOST: Ryan Dunn is the CEO of the Virginia Dental Association. Ryan has played major roles in four national and statewide Associations while also working on Capitol Hill. When he’s not talking all things dental, he’s talking about his family and baseball–and sometimes both at the same time.
GUEST: Paul Logan of the Virginia Dental Association. Paul focuses on member advocacy, developing resources for dental students and early-career dentists, and working with a broad range of stakeholders to address Virginia’s dental workforce needs. Paul currently serves on the executive committee of the Coalition for Modernizing Dental Licensure and the College Board of J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College. Outside of work, he’s trying to keep up with his three- and six-year-old daughters.
MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
VDA 2026 Legislative Initiatives
EPISODE CREDITS
Producer: Paul Logan
Host: Ryan Dunn
Guest: Paul Logan
Post-Production/Editor: Shannon Jacobs
Subscribe, share, and send your feedback and topic ideas to thefulcrumpodcast@vadental.org.
The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this Podcast are for general information only, and any reliance on the information provided in this Podcast is done at your own risk. This Podcast should not be considered professional, medical, or legal advice.
Music in this episode from Epidemic Sound
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