Dental Leaders Podcast

In this emotionally rich and refreshingly candid episode of Mind Movers, Julius Cowdrey joins Rhona and Payman to explore everything from public vulnerability to private pain.Once a singer-songwriter and Made in Chelsea star, Julius opens up about chasing validation, generational trauma, the pressure to provide, and the chaos of early success.Now a transformational coach, he reflects on the personal work it took to leave reality TV behind and step into purpose.Expect unfiltered honesty on masculinity, mental health, family dynamics, social media comparison, and what it really takes to feel “enough.”In This Episode00:01:00 – Reinvention and identity00:10:30 – Pressure to provide00:20:00 – Family, love and legacy00:29:30 – Made in Chelsea: dark side00:39:00 – Leaving TV for growth00:48:30 – Coaching and imposter syndrome00:58:00 – Purpose through helping others01:07:30 – Social media and truth01:17:00 – Masculinity and mental health01:26:00 – Fantasy dinner party guestsAbout Julius CowdreyJulius Cowdrey is a transformational coach, speaker and content creator known for his emotional intelligence, powerful conversations on male vulnerability, and background in music and television. After rising to fame on Made in Chelsea, Julius left the show to focus on his personal growth and now helps others move from chaos to clarity in their lives through coaching and his widely shared content series, The Mic.

In the second part of this enlightening conversation, Martin and Vinnie Attariani dive deeper into their professional lives and personal passions. They discuss their experiences as judges for dental awards, their perspectives on industry recognition, and Martin's surprising side career as a professional magician.The conversation explores their charitable endeavours, reflections on effective altruism, and their vision for a more holistic approach to healthcare that extends beyond dentistry. With candid insights about prevention, patient education, and the importance of looking at overall wellbeing, the Attarianis reveal their aspirations to create something more comprehensive than traditional dental care.In This Episode00:00:50 - Judging dental awards 00:05:10 - Dispelling award myths 00:09:35 - Patient journey innovations 00:13:15 - First impressions in practice 00:17:25 - The Top 50 dental list 00:21:00 - Kilimanjaro expedition 00:29:40 - Charity fundraising 00:32:30 - Effective altruism discussion 00:40:30 - Magic as a second career 00:43:35 - The Magic Dentist project 00:45:40 - Prevention and sugar frequency 00:53:15 - Future business plans 00:57:50 - Holistic healthcare visionAbout Martin and Vinnie AttarianiMartin Attariani fled Iran as a teenage refugee before qualifying as a dentist in Sweden, where he also holds a master's in biochemistry. Now practising in the UK for 17 years, he operates a beautifully refurbished listed building practice where he excels in complex dentistry, including implants, endodontics, and orthodontics. Vinnie Attariani, originally from Canada, moved to the UK through an arranged marriage at 17, qualifying in dentistry from Birmingham in 2000 while raising two sons during her undergraduate years. She practices in a partnership at Houston Place, one of the UK's oldest dental practices, established in the 1840s.

In this deeply personal first part of a two-part interview, Payman Langroudi sits down with the dental power couple Martin and Vinnie Attariani. They share their remarkable journey to the UK - Martin's harrowing escape from Iran as a 14-year-old refugee to Sweden, and Vinnie's move from Canada to the UK through an arranged marriage at 17. The conversation explores their paths into dentistry, their approach to clinical excellence, and their philosophy about practice ownership. With candid reflections on mistakes, patient management, and work-life balance, the Attarianis offer invaluable insights into what makes a fulfilling career in dentistry while maintaining perspective on what truly matters in life.In This Episode00:01:55 - Meeting and getting together 00:05:40 - Martin's escape from Iran 00:25:25 - First reunion with family 00:31:40 - Vinnie's journey from Canada 00:43:35 - Balancing education and motherhood 00:51:45 - Swedish dental education 01:03:55 - Digital dentistry and scanning 01:11:35 - Blackbox thinking: Clinical errors 01:17:15 - Fitness to practice investigation 01:22:40 - Managing cosmetic patient expectations 01:31:25 - Partnership practice model 01:39:00 - Mental health in dentistry 01:51:40 - Fantasy dinner party 01:54:35 - Last days and legacyAbout Martin and Vinnie AttarianiMartin Attariani fled Iran as a teenage refugee before qualifying as a dentist in Sweden, where he also holds a master's in biochemistry. Now practising in the UK for 17 years, he operates a beautifully refurbished listed building practice where he excels in complex dentistry, including implants, endodontics, and orthodontics. Vinnie Attariani, originally from Canada, moved to the UK through an arranged marriage at 17, qualifying in dentistry from Birmingham in 2000 while raising two sons during her undergraduate years. She practices in a partnership at Houston Place, one of the UK's oldest dental practices, established in the 1840s.

Prav sits down with husband-and-wife team Drs Mumta and Amit Jilka, the owners of Abbey House Dental. From humble beginnings working in corner shops to building a successful multi-practice dental business, the Jilkas share their inspiring journey of entrepreneurship, resilience, and growth. They candidly discuss how their business flourished organically before adopting a more strategic approach, including the challenges they faced during a financial crisis in 2024 that nearly led to bankruptcy, and how they turned it around through team solidarity, data-driven decisions, and improved associate mentorship.In This Episode00:01:40 - Backstory00:26:40 - Path to dentistry and how they both ended up at Sheffield University 00:29:35 - How Mumta and Amit met at dental school and their early relationship 00:41:25 - The purchase of their first practice and the beginning of Abbey House Dental00:45:55 - Balancing practice growth with raising children 00:48:35 - How Covid provided a valuable opportunity to reassess their business strategy 00:51:55 - Financial crisis of 2024 and discovering their business model wasn't working 00:57:45 - Difficult conversations with associates about reducing percentages 01:01:35 - The importance of mentoring associates, especially with consultation skills 01:04:55 - Current state of Abbey House and future growth plans 01:10:55 - Reflections on their journey and thriving in crisis mode01:15:55 - Last days and legacy - advice they would leave for their children 01:19:15 - Fantasy dinner party guestsAbout Mumta and Amit JilkaDr. Mumta and Dr. Amit Jilka own Abbey House Dental, a group of four dental practices known for high-quality private dentistry, Invisalign, and implant treatments. Both raised in entrepreneurial families with corner shop businesses, they met at Sheffield University's dental school and married two years after graduation. Their business journey began with purchasing a single-surgery practice that has now expanded to multiple locations, all while raising three children and navigating the ups and downs of dental practice ownership.

Prav Solanki returns as host to interview Dev Patel, CEO of Dental Beauty Partners, about growing and scaling dental practices. This episode effectively distills the regular conversations Prav and Dev have about practice growth, offering listeners a fly-on-the-wall experience of their candid discussions. Dev shares his straightforward approach to practice growth, emphasising the importance of leadership, financial literacy, and a patient-first mindset. They discuss everything from evaluating practice potential and understanding financial statements to employee relationships and investment strategies. The episode builds toward an exciting announcement about a new joint venture that promises to transform how practice owners approach business growth: https://www.startscaleexit.co.ukIn This Episode00:02:40 - Practice-growth mindset 00:04:35 - Growth & NHS00:09:00 - Improving patient journey and experience 00:12:30 - Due diligence and practice acquisitions 00:14:15 - Investing in people vs investing in premises 00:17:15 - Financial literacy and business training00:33:10 - Investing in tech00:36:35 - Sales and practice profitability 00:39:10 - Revenue growth with cost control 00:41:25 - Leadership and transparency00:44:55 - Modern vs traditional leadership approaches00:47:20 - Big announcementAbout Dev PatelDev Patel is the CEO of Dental Beauty Partners, a dental group with 57 practices across the UK. With over 15 years of experience in practice acquisitions and growth, Dev has developed a reputation for rapidly scaling dental businesses through strategic partnerships and a people-focused investment approach. His expertise lies in identifying growth opportunities, streamlining operations, and creating sustainable business models in dentistry.

Payman chats with Kaival Patel, the dynamic force behind Kana Health Group. Kaival opens up about his journey from an enthusiastic associate dentist to the leader of a thriving dental empire comprising five large practices and 130 staff members. With refreshing candour, he shares the challenges of creating a positive culture, the emotional lows of practice ownership, and his innovative approaches to team building and referral marketing. What truly shines through is Kaival's passion for developing people and creating workplaces where positivity becomes the foundation for success.In This Episode00:01:40 - Practice culture and family vibe across multiple locations 00:04:15 - North Star: Establishing positivity and respect as core values 00:09:50 - Evolution vs. revolution in practice acquisitions 00:12:35 - Growing as a leader and management evolution 00:16:30 - The Kana Cup: Points for positivity team system 00:19:20 - Handling resistance to new ideas 00:24:20 - Hiring for attitude over skill 00:30:15 - Business structure and organisation 00:40:35 - Pursuing peace vs. potential 00:53:05 - Creating a referral centre 00:57:45 - The hamper drop: Innovative referral marketing 01:04:00 - Career evolution and identity crisis 01:14:15 - Fantasy dinner party 01:28:55 - Last days and legacyAbout Kaival PatelKaival is the co-director of Kana Health Group, which operates five large dental practices with 28-29 chairs across Milton Keynes, employing approximately 130 team members. Originally from a family of Ugandan Asian immigrants who valued education above all, Kaival transitioned from clinical dentistry to business leadership after experiencing eye health issues during COVID. Together with his wife Serena, he has developed the Kana Academy, an educational institution providing high-quality dental training in Milton Keynes.

In this powerful episode of Mind Movers, Rhona and Payman speak with Jacqueline Hurst, one of the UK's leading life coaches and mindset experts. Jacqueline shares her remarkable journey from addiction, anorexia and self-destruction to becoming a force for change who has helped thousands transform their lives. With raw honesty, she explains how she hit rock bottom at 25, found recovery, and developed her no-nonsense approach to mindset work. The conversation explores how our thoughts create our feelings, the importance of self-awareness, and why finding inner peace has become Jacqueline's definition of success after 22 years of sobriety.In This Episode00:01:35 - Introduction and background 00:03:35 - Early struggles with addiction 00:05:25 - Parenting impact without blame 00:10:00 - Mindset management philosophy 00:22:15 - Fight or flight responses 00:29:10 - Rock bottom and turning point 00:30:10 - Recovery through meetings00:39:35 - Thought patterns vs feelings 00:49:10 - Relationships and emotional intelligence 00:53:25 - Common limiting beliefs 00:55:40 - Self-awareness techniques 01:00:00 - Peace as true success 01:08:15 - Last days and legacyAbout Jacqueline HurstJacqueline Hurst is one of the UK's leading life coaches, a mindset expert and author of "How to Do You". After overcoming severe addiction issues and hitting rock bottom at age 25, she transformed her life and has now been clean for 22 years. Her straight-talking approach has helped over 9,000 clients break free from limiting beliefs and take control of their minds.

In this captivating episode of Dental Leaders, Payman sits down with specialist endodontist Ammar Al Hourani. Born in Syria and raised in Scotland, Ammar shares his journey from reluctant dental student to passionate endodontics specialist. The conversation weaves through his life-changing experiences in refugee camps, the challenges of specialist training, and his current success running courses in the UK and India. Throughout the discussion, Ammar offers valuable clinical insights on everything from diagnosis to obturation while reflecting on the importance of listening to one's gut instinct in both clinical practice and life.In This Episode00:01:55 - Scottish upbringing and cultural identity 00:04:55 - Path to dentistry 00:14:45 - Refugee camp experiences 00:22:25 - Endodontic specialisation journey 00:27:35 - Imposter syndrome and building a practice 00:33:50 - Endodontic diagnosis tips 00:36:15 - Access cavity preparation 00:38:05 - Irrigation techniques 00:41:35 - File systems and obturation 00:45:40 - Coronal seal importance 00:49:50 - Managing cracked teeth 00:55:00 - Internal whitening techniques 01:03:40 - NHS dentistry challenges 01:08:40 - Continuing education courses01:28:10 - Blackbox thinking 01:36:45 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Ammar Al HouraniAmmar Al Hourani is a specialist endodontist based in London. Originally from Syria but raised in Scotland, he completed his specialist training at Liverpool after working in various clinical settings. He now divides his time between clinical practice at multiple locations and teaching through "The Endo Guy," offering courses in both the UK and India.

In this Dental Leaders episode, Payman sits down with Sam Cope, a dentist whose journey to dentistry began in physiotherapy. Known for his focus on minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry, Sam discusses the habits that keep his clinical days finely tuned, the influence of mentors, and his obsession with detail. He reflects on how his background in physio shaped his approach to patient care, back health, and long-term sustainability in dentistry. The conversation ranges from composite techniques and mental health to happiness, burnout, and redefining success. Honest, introspective, and often unexpectedly profound, this is an episode that challenges what it means to thrive in modern dentistry. In This Episode00:01:00 – Daily habits and preparation00:13:00 – Mentorship and clinical growth00:25:00 – Blackbox thinking: Mistakes & lessons00:35:00 – From physio to dentistry00:47:00 – Adversity and inner drive00:58:00 – Mental health and fulfilment01:10:00 – Dentistry, stress and back pain01:23:00 – Work-life balance philosophy01:36:00 – Living below your means01:48:00 – Fantasy dinner party guestsAbout Sam CopeSam Cope is a minimally invasive cosmetic dentist based at Love Teeth, known for his highly refined clinical systems and patient-focused care. Originally trained as a physiotherapist, he transitioned into dentistry after discovering a passion for aesthetic and restorative treatment. Sam combines his love for detail with a strong belief in reflection, mentorship, and doing fewer things, better.

Sarovi Davda, a general dentist with a special interest in periodontics, joins Payman for an insightful conversation about the evolution of periodontal treatment and the art of balancing professional expertise with personal growth. From her journey through dental school to establishing herself as a medico-legal expert witness, Sarovi shares candid reflections on career choices, parenthood, and divorce. Her passion for periodontics combines technical skill with psychological understanding, emphasising how patient motivation transforms treatment outcomes. Throughout the episode, Sarovi's spiritual outlook provides a refreshing perspective on finding meaning in dentistry and life beyond clinical practice.In This Episode00:01:40 - Practice limitation to periodontics and medico-legal work00:05:35 - Childhood and education journey 00:09:35 - Balancing career with parenthood 00:10:25 - Navigating divorce and personal growth 00:17:45 - Dental school experiences 00:26:20 - Discovering a passion for periodontics 00:32:50 - Clinical prognosis in periodontics 00:39:00 - Interdental brushing vs flossing debate 00:43:50 - Medico-legal expert witness work 00:51:20 - Preventing periodontal litigation 01:14:15 - Blackbox thinking01:27:50 - Fantasy dinner party 01:32:45 - Last days and legacyAbout Sarovi DavdaSarovi Davda is a general dentist whose practice is now completely limited to periodontics and medico-legal expert witness work. After completing her MSc in Restorative Dental Practice at the Eastman, she developed her expertise in periodontics under the mentorship of respected periodontists Phil Ower and Graham Smart. Sarovi divides her time equally between clinical periodontics and serving as an independent expert witness, bringing her evidence-based approach to both areas of her practice.

In this captivating episode, Payman Langroudi sits down with Bhavnish Waghela, owner of Natural Smiles practices in Leicester and Corby. Bhavnish shares his journey from NHS to private dentistry, discussing his philosophy of "Michelin-starred dentistry" and how his faith has guided significant business decisions. With refreshing candour, he explores the challenges of opening squat practices, his evolution as an implantologist, and the importance of balancing professional success with family life. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Bhavnish reveals how his cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs have shaped his approach to dentistry and practice ownership.In This Episode00:01:00 - Practice ownership00:03:15 - Michelin-starred dentistry philosophy00:05:30 - Patient experience and team training00:08:45 - Transitioning from NHS to private practice00:10:45 - Squat practice challenges00:15:35 - Community connections in Leicester00:17:35 - Faith's influence on business decisions00:24:45 - Questioning faith during difficult times00:27:15 - Work-life balance philosophy00:30:05 - Early life and dental education00:35:35 - First job experiences00:40:00 - Journey into implantology00:46:35 - Surgical temperament in implantology00:51:50 - Soft tissue management in implants00:56:00 - Digital guided surgery adoption01:01:40 - All-on-four marketing approach01:02:30 - Blackbox thinking01:09:10 - Associate selection and management01:18:20 - Future plans and potential retirement01:20:35 - Fantasy dinner party01:25:25 - Last days and legacyAbout Bhavnish WaghelaBhavnish Waghela is the owner of Natural Smiles dental practices in Leicester and Corby. With nearly 30 years in dentistry, he transitioned from NHS to private practice, focusing primarily on implant and restorative dentistry. Deeply connected to his Hindu faith and Indian heritage, Bhavnish balances his professional life with community involvement and family priorities.

In this captivating conversation, young dentist Sarina Kiani shares her journey from GSK dental rep to working in two of London's most prestigious practices. Her remarkable story is one of resilience, authenticity and quiet confidence. From knocking on 120 practice doors to secure her first private position to navigating challenges as a newly qualified dentist in high-end clinics, Sarina offers refreshing insights into building a successful career while maintaining mental wellbeing. Her philosophy of finding joy in small everyday moments and not tying self-worth to professional achievements resonates throughout this honest and engaging discussion about dentistry, personal growth, and the importance of being yourself.In This Episode00:01:25 - Introduction to Sarina Kiani 00:01:35 - Landing prestigious jobs at Mehdi's and Rhona's practices 00:04:35 - Working as a dental nurse during COVID 00:07:10 - Journey to becoming a dentist 00:10:40 - Resilience and not taking no for an answer 00:13:50 - Source of resilience - her mother's story 00:19:10 - Identity tied to academic performance 00:23:45 - Quietly confident personality 00:27:20 - Challenges of dental school 00:31:35 - First jobs after graduation 00:43:15 - Getting a job through persistence 00:46:15 - Receptionists as gatekeepers 00:54:50 - Painless injections as practice builder 01:04:00 - Blackbox thinking 01:16:20 - Social media as marketing 01:24:25 - Fantasy dinner party 01:30:05 - Last days and legacyAbout Sarina KianiSarina Kiani is a young dentist working in two prestigious London practices - Mehdi's Refreshed Dental in Twickenham and Rhona's Chelsea Dental Clinic. After working as a GSK dental rep, she pursued dentistry at King's College London, demonstrating remarkable persistence through multiple application rejections. With a philosophy centered on authenticity and understanding the human side of patient care, she's quickly established herself as a rising talent in private dentistry.

In this compelling episode of Mind Movers, Rhona Eskander sits down with Dr Philippa Kaye, a GP, author, and menopause expert who's become a powerful voice in medical communication. Their honest conversation traverses the landscape of women's health, from medical misogyny to the science of menopause. Dr Kaye shares her personal cancer journey with raw vulnerability, offering profound insights on resilience and self-discovery. The discussion challenges societal stigmas and highlights how historical biases continue to shape women's healthcare experiences today.In This Episode00:01:40 - Early life and medical career 00:03:35 - The power of medical communication 00:06:35 - Comparing dentistry and medicine as career paths 00:12:40 - Medical misogyny and gender health gap 00:21:05 - The origin of "hysteria" and medical sexism 00:24:20 - Mind-body connection in medicine 00:29:05 - Psychedelic medicine research 00:33:55 - Personal cancer journey 00:43:15 - Cancer rates and prevention 00:47:40 - The pursuit of happiness vs. suffering for goals 00:49:45 - Weight loss medications in society 00:55:50 - Body image and societal standards 01:05:25 - Menopause science and education 01:09:10 - Factors affecting menopause timingAbout Dr Philippa KayeDr Philippa Kaye is a practising GP, author, and prominent medical communicator who specialises in women's health and menopause education. With her background from Cambridge and King's College London, she divides her time between clinical practice and media work, where she translates complex medical information into accessible language for millions through television appearances and books including "The Science of Menopause."

Payman chats with three dental professionals from mydentist—Claire Stenhouse, Parin Shah, and Alyssia Willis—each offering a unique perspective on working within a corporate dental environment. Claire shares how she expanded her role as a hygiene therapist into whitening and restorative procedures, while Parin reflects on her journey from owning a practice in India to adapting to the UK system. Alyssia discusses her transition from dental nursing to therapy and the opportunities available within corporate dentistry. The discussion covers corporate autonomy, misconceptions about working in a large organisation, handling patient complaints, career growth, and the evolving role of therapists. The trio also discuss clinical mistakes, managing work-life balance, and their thoughts on the future of corporate dentistry.In This Episode00:01:00 - Introduction to corporate dentistry00:12:30 - Expanding hygiene therapist roles00:25:10 - Parin's move from India00:37:45 - Balancing NHS and private00:48:30 - Blackbox thinking: Clinical mistakes01:00:15 - Handling difficult patients01:12:50 - Corporate dentistry evolution01:25:20 - Private vs corporate careers01:38:15 - Career impact and legacy01:50:30 - Fantasy dinner party guestsAbout Claire Stenhouse, Parin Shah & Alyssia WillisClaire Stenhouse is a hygiene therapist at mydentist in Skegness, where she has expanded her role beyond hygiene to include whitening and restorative treatments.Parin Shah is a dentist who originally ran her own practice in India before moving to the UK. She shares insights on adapting to a new healthcare system and working within corporate dentistry.Alyssia Willis transitioned from dental nursing to therapy, demonstrating the career growth opportunities within mydentist. She is passionate about expanding the therapist's role and mentoring others in the field.

In this episode of Dental Leaders, Payman welcomes Nyree Whitley, Chief Clinical Officer at mydentist, to discuss the realities of corporate dentistry, leadership, and the evolving role of clinicians in large-scale dental organisations. Nyree dispels common misconceptions about corporate dentistry, emphasising the balance between clinical freedom and structured support. She shares insights into the challenges of managing thousands of dentists, the importance of mentorship, and the shift toward large multi-chair supercentres. With a career spanning both clinical and executive roles, Nyree offers a candid look at the business of dentistry, the future of NHS and private care, and the changes shaping the next generation of dentists.In This Episode00:01:00 - Misconceptions about corporate dentistry00:02:30 - Clinical freedom vs. strategic partnerships in corporates00:05:00 - Compliance, autonomy, and decision-making within mydentist.00:07:40 - Balancing corporate goals with clinical priorities00:09:30 - Private equity misconceptions: “Buy one, get one free” on fillings?!00:14:15 - The reality of NHS patient numbers and service demand00:17:30 - The 50/50 NHS-private revenue split and future of NHS care00:21:15 - Recruitment challenges, overseas hiring, and finding the right dentists00:25:50 - The rise of multi-chair supercentres and the shift from small practices00:28:00 - Blackbox thinking: handling mistakes and improving patient care00:35:30 - Managing the pressures of large-scale corporate dentistry00:38:00 - Last days and legacy: Nyree's reflections on career impact00:45:10 - Fantasy dinner party: who would Nyree invite?About Nyree WhitleyNyree Whitley is the Chief Clinical Officer at mydentist, overseeing clinical standards, development, and strategy for one of the UK's largest dental groups. With a background in both clinical practice and executive leadership, she has played a pivotal role in shaping corporate dentistry, balancing the needs of clinicians with the operational goals of a nationwide brand. A passionate advocate for mentorship and professional growth, Nyree is committed to ensuring that dentists—whether newly qualified or experienced—have the right support, training, and opportunities to thrive.

Georgia Meacham opens up about her journey as a deaf model and actress, sharing her transformation from hiding her hearing aids to becoming a proud advocate for disability visibility. Through honest conversation with Rhona and Payman, Georgia reveals how embracing her identity has improved her mental health and inspired others. Her story touches on themes of authenticity, representation in media, and the importance of normalising difference in society.In This Episode00:01:35 - Early diagnosis and childhood experiences00:03:30 - Navigating mainstream education00:05:05 - Speech therapy and communication development00:07:00 - Family support and building confidence00:16:15 - Hidden struggles and career challenges00:25:10 - Mental health transformation00:31:00 - Discussion on privilege and responsibility00:41:35 - Breaking into modelling and managing rejection00:44:45 - Technology and accessibility in healthcare00:53:35 - Moments of feeling truly understood00:57:05 - Supporting the deaf community01:00:45 - Final thoughts on vulnerability and connectionAbout Georgia MeachamGeorgia Meacham is a model and actress who was diagnosed as deaf at 16 months old. Standing at six feet tall, she has worked in both commercial and catwalk modelling for nearly a decade. After years of hiding her hearing aids, Georgia has become a powerful advocate for disability visibility and mental health awareness, using her platform to inspire others to embrace their authentic selves.

In this deeply moving episode, Sharon Walsh shares her journey from being a successful private practice owner to experiencing a devastating personal and professional crisis that led to practice loss, divorce, alcoholism, and a seven-year GDC case.  With remarkable candour, she discusses her path to recovery, spiritual awakening, and finding meaning beyond material success.  Her story is one of resilience, acceptance, and the profound understanding that sometimes we must be completely broken to discover our true selves. In This Episode 00:01:05 - Career beginnings and building a private practice 00:03:40 - Practice dynamics and associate challenges 00:07:05 - Passion for dentistry and professional development 00:12:50 - The catalyst for breakdown 00:15:00 - Mental health crisis and practice loss 00:20:15 - Descent into alcoholism 00:24:25 - Marriage breakdown and personal struggles 00:47:50 - Homelessness and hitting rock bottom 00:49:20 - Recovery and spiritual awakening 00:56:35 - Blackbox thinking 01:00:50 - The loneliness of dentistry 01:06:10 - Fantasy dinner party guests 01:13:00 - Last days and legacy About Sharon Walsh Sharon Walsh is a dentist who built a successful private practice near Rochdale after transforming it from "a shed" into a beautiful, patient-focused space.  A passionate clinician with expertise in restorative dentistry and prosthodontics, she worked alongside some of UK dentistry's most respected figures.  After experiencing a life-altering crisis in 2017, she has emerged with a deeper understanding of life's purpose and now shares her story to help others facing similar challenges.

From fleeing revolution-era Iran to building an eight-surgery practice in Norwich, Fariba Zolfaghari shares her remarkable journey of resilience and reinvention.  Through arranged marriage, divorce, immigration, and starting over as a single mother, Fariba pursued her dental education in Sweden before establishing herself in the UK.  She opens up about overcoming personal and professional challenges, including a difficult business partnership dissolution and bankruptcy, to emerge stronger.  Today, she runs a thriving private practice while maintaining her passion for learning and digital dentistry. In This Episode 00:01:50 - Backstory 00:16:35 - Journey to Sweden as an asylum seeker 00:19:35 - Dental education while raising two children 00:41:35 - Starting practice in Norwich 00:46:35 - Business partnership challenges 00:57:25 - Navigating bankruptcy and rebuilding 01:08:55 - Converting to private practice 01:14:35 - Current practice focus and digital dentistry 01:31:40 - Black box thinking 01:37:35 - Fantasy dinner party guests About Fariba Zolfaghari Fariba is a dentist who qualified in Sweden in 1997 before moving to the UK, where she established her practice in Norwich in 2000.  She holds a master's degree in orthodontics from Warwick University and has grown her practice into an eight-surgery facility.  A champion of digital dentistry and continuing education, she focuses on orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, and full-mouth rehabilitation while mentoring younger dentists.

Nutritional scientist Dr Federica Amati shares her journey from aspiring medical student to becoming head nutritionist at Zoe. She discusses the importance of evidence-based nutrition, the challenges of public health communication, and the complexities of dietary advice in the age of social media.  Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, Amati emphasises the value of consistent, varied eating patterns and the critical role of prevention in public health. In This Episode 00:00:25 - Introduction and early education background 00:01:25 - Medical school aspirations and pivot to biomedical sciences 00:08:25 - Career transition to public health and prevention 00:16:25 - Journey through hospitality and marketing in New York 00:21:45 - Return to academia and pursuing a PhD 00:23:15 - Balancing motherhood with academic pursuits 00:33:00 - Role at Zoe and nutrition science 00:39:45 - Mediterranean diet and carbohydrate quality 00:56:35 - Social media, nutrition misinformation, and professional responsibility 01:08:35 - Perspectives on weight loss medication 01:09:30 - Vision for the future of nutrition and public health About Federica Amati Dr Federica Amati is a nutrition scientist who holds a PhD in clinical medicine research and serves as the head nutritionist at Zoe. She combines her expertise in public health, medical science, and nutrition to promote evidence-based dietary advice. Currently, she holds a teaching role as the nutrition lead in the School of Medicine and works clinically as an AFN registered nutritionist.

Claire Nightingale, a consultant orthodontist and former practice owner, shares her remarkable journey through dentistry spanning over three decades.  From her early experiences as a patient that sparked her interest in dentistry, through to her recent venture into stand-up comedy, Claire offers candid insights into practice ownership, clinical excellence, and embracing change in orthodontics.  She discusses her transition from NHS to private practice, her pioneering adoption of Invisalign and digital dentistry, and her recent experience selling to a corporate group.  In This Episode 00:01:45 - Early career influences and becoming an orthodontist 00:04:15 - Digital dentistry adoption and Invisalign journey 00:09:35 - Evolution of aligner treatment 00:12:15 - NHS training challenges and future of orthodontics 00:33:25 - Practice ownership journey 00:42:10 - Keys to running a successful business 00:49:55 - Selling to a corporate group 01:04:35 - Women's Dentist Network 01:21:55 - Blackbox thinking 01:24:00 - Life after practice sale 01:57:15 - Stand-up comedy venture 02:02:15 - Fantasy dinner party guests 02:03:50 - Last days and legacy About Claire Nightingale Claire Nightingale is a consultant orthodontist at Watford General Hospital and private practitioner with over 25 years of specialist experience.  A pioneer in digital orthodontics and remote monitoring, she successfully built and sold Queensgate Orthodontics while maintaining her NHS consultant role. Claire is actively involved in the Women's Dentist Network and recently embarked on a new chapter combining expert witness work with stand-up comedy.

In this engaging episode, longtime dental industry professional Joe Lovett shares his journey from his early days at FMC Publications to founding his own consulting business, Catalyst.  He discusses the evolution of dental media, the importance of maintaining authentic relationships in business, and his passion for helping young dentists advance their careers.  Through candid stories and reflections, Joe offers insights into corporate culture, ethical business practices, and the changing landscape of dental industry networking.  In This Episode 00:03:05 - Fitness and mental health 00:07:40 - Business, sales and ethics 00:10:50 - Early career 00:24:30 - Fast Tracking Your Future 00:33:50 - Dental and social media 00:46:45 - Corporate culture 00:56:50 - Consulting and relationship building 01:17:35 - Career challenges and lessons learned 01:24:10 - Looking ahead 01:27:25 - Closing questions About Joe Lovett Joe Lovett is a prominent dental industry consultant and founder of Catalyst, specialising in helping international dental companies enter the UK market and mentoring the next generation of dental professionals.  With nearly two decades of experience in dental media and business development, beginning at FMC Publications in 2008, Joe has established himself as a trusted advisor and connector within the dental community.

After building a successful hospitality empire in London, including venues like Rum Kitchen and Island Poké, Alex Potter found himself feeling empty—despite external success.  A profound spiritual awakening led him to leave his business empire and divorce, embarking on a path of self-discovery through breathwork, plant medicine, and coaching.  Now, through his company Kaizen, he helps leaders reconnect with their authentic selves through innovative retreats and coaching programmes that blend ancient wisdom with modern practices. In This Episode 00:00:40 - Early life and acting career 00:05:35 - First entrepreneurial ventures in nightlife 00:23:00 - Building the hospitality empire 00:31:25 - Spiritual awakening through breathwork 00:39:35 - Transitioning away from business success 00:54:15 - Understanding Internal Family Systems 01:10:15 - Rites of passage 01:21:35 - The Kaizen approach to transformation 01:24:25 - Holistic healing versus traditional therapy 01:27:55 - Connecting with the inner child About Alex Potter A London native and former actor turned hospitality entrepreneur, Alex Potter built and ran multiple successful venues, including Rum Kitchen, Island Poké, and Ping.  After experiencing burnout and a spiritual awakening, he trained extensively in coaching, breathwork, and plant medicine.  Today, he runs Kaizen, an interdisciplinary coaching company specialising in transformative experiences and retreats.

Riaz Sharif shares his incredible journey from growing up in the foster care system to becoming a successful dental professional. He opens up about the challenges of his childhood as an orphan, his determination to pursue dentistry despite numerous setbacks, and his experiences studying abroad in Hungary and Slovakia.  In This Episode 00:01:55 - Backstory 00:08:35 - Boxing 00:13:45 - Study 00:19:00 - Personal challenges 00:24:25 - Return to the UK 00:29:10 -Social media presence and marketing 00:47:45 - Blackbox thinking 00:56:30 - Aspirations 01.03.40 - Fantasy dinner party 01:09:15 - Last days and legacy About Riaz Sharif Riaz Sharif is a UK-based dentist and finalist for multiple industry awards, including the Private Dentistry Awards. Riaz brings a unique perspective to dentistry shaped by his background in boxing and personal training, along with his commitment to mentoring the next generation of dental professionals.

In this solo episode of the Dental Leaders podcast, Prav Solanki reflects on the past year and shares his plans for 2025, focusing on personal growth, public speaking, and health and wellness. He discusses the challenges faced by dental practices in marketing and competition, emphasizing the importance of a robust sales process and conversion strategies. Prav highlights niche marketing opportunities, particularly for nervous patients and children's orthodontics, and predicts a positive trend in dental practice acquisitions for the coming year. He concludes with insights on evidence-based wellness and the importance of foundational health practices. In This Episode 00:00 - Planning for 202505:42 - Dental Marketing and Competition12:45 - Sales Process & Conversion Strategies19:03 - Niche Marketing26:37 - Future Trends in Dental Practice Acquisitions34:12 - Evidence-Based Wellness and Health Goals About Prav Solanki Prav Solanki is a marketing scientist and dental growth specialist who has supported countless dental professionals and organisations to achieve stellar growth. He is a co-owner and director of IAS Academy and founder of The Fresh, the UK's leading dental growth and marketing agency. His latest project, Leadflo, is described as the world's most advanced CRM for dental clinics.

Dentist and legal expert Simon Thackeray discusses his route from NHS to private practice, his involvement in dental politics, and his role as a founder member of BAPD (British Association of Private Dentistry).  He offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by private dentists during COVID-19 and shares candid thoughts about the profession's future direction.  The discussion covers everything from practice management and patient care to broader societal issues affecting dentistry. In This Episode 02:00 - Backstory 03:35 - BAPD formation 07:45 - COVID - international approaches 13:35 - NHS dentistry 21:25 - Class and social mobility 31:30 - Legislation and governance 42:10 - Young dentists and private practice 52:15 - Career and practice ownership 54:35 - From NHS to private practice 1:14:00 - Commoditisation and ethics 1:21:45 - Education and public messaging 1:26:35 - Blackbox thinking 1:32:00 - Closing questions About Simon Thackeray Simon Thackeray is a prominent private dentist based in Mansfield who holds a master's degree in law and serves as a founder member of the British Association of Private Dentists (BAPD), which he helped establish during the COVID-19 pandemic. After qualifying in 1991, he worked in several NHS practices before purchasing his own practice and transitioning to fully private care in 2006.

Dental students Lwai Almasri and Saif Mukadam discuss their journeys into dentistry, their experiences at King's College London, and their creation of the UK Dental Students network.  The conversation covers Saif's unique path from professional football to dentistry, the challenges of dental school, and their ambitious plans for organising a "Top 50 Dental Students" event.  They provide valuable insights into modern dental education, including the impact of online learning and the competitive nature of dental school. In This Episode 01:30 - Backstory 05:15 - Student life 16:45 - Family background 19:25 - Living in London 24:15 - UK Dental Students Network 31:25 - Clinical experience 55:25 - Top 50 Dental Students plans1: 20:00 - Goals and aspirations 1:34:35 - Family and siblings About Lwai Almasri and Saif Mukadam Lwai Almasri is a third-year dental student at King's College London whose parents are both dentists. Saif Mukadam took an unconventional path to dentistry, first pursuing a career as a professional footballer at Walsall FC for two years before joining King's College London as a dental student, where he and Lwai co-founded the UK Dental Students network, now the largest community of dental students in the country.

Rhona Eskander and Payman chat with Adeola Gboyega, a renowned makeup artist and beauty expert with over a decade of industry experience.  The conversation delves deep into representation in the beauty industry, mental health challenges content creators face, and the evolution of social media's impact on business.  Adeola shares her journey from traditional education to becoming a successful makeup artist and content creator while discussing important topics like the pay gap for black creators and the importance of authenticity in building a community. In This Episode 00:01:45 - Backstory 00:03:30 - Early career 00:04:55 - Beauty standards 00:09:30 - Social media and the beauty industry 00:11:20 - Reflections on Black Lives Matter 00:12:25 - Ethnicity and pay gaps 00:15:00 - Nigeria and Nollywood 00:20:35 - Therapy and mental health 00:36:05 - The beauty industry 00:42:35 - Content creation 00:52:15 - Future plans and closing thoughts About Adeola Gboyega Adeola Gboyega is a seasoned makeup artist and beauty expert with over a decade of industry experience. She is known for her skin-first philosophy and collaborations with prominent beauty brands, including Bobbi Brown and Pat McGrath.  As a successful content creator and beauty educator, she has built a devoted community of "glow getters".

Emerging dental leader Yewande Oduwole shares her inspiring journey from Nigeria to becoming an award-winning dentist in the UK. She opens up about her challenging childhood, faith-driven approach to life, and her mission to increase representation in dentistry through social media and the Black Dental Network.  The conversation spans her innovative approach to dental practice, her social media influence, and her experiences with brand partnerships while touching on valuable clinical insights and lessons learned from early career challenges. In This Episode 00:01:50 - Backstory 00:24:45 - Dental school 00:27:55 - Building a personal brand 00:29:25 - Early work 00:34:00 - Foundation training 00:39:35 - Current practice 00:52:35 - Social media 00:56:00 - Brand partnerships and ambassador roles 01:05:55 - Blackbox thinking 01:15:35 - The Black Dental Network About Yewande Oduwole Yewande Oduwole is an award-winning dentist and influential voice in UK dentistry. She is known for her work in increasing representation within the profession through social media and as a core member of the Black Dental Network. A graduate of Peninsula Dental School, she has established herself as a respected clinician at Two Green Dental while also serving as a brand ambassador and mentor. 

Anushika Brogan, owner of Damira Dental Studios with 42 practices and over 200 dentists, shares her remarkable journey from a single practice owner to one of the UK's most successful dental entrepreneurs.  She discusses her business philosophy, leadership approach, and personal experiences while offering valuable insights into managing a large dental organisation.  The conversation touches on both professional challenges and personal growth, including her experiences with divorce, parenthood, and maintaining a work-life balance. In This Episode: 00:03:25 - Leadership styles and staff management 00:13:35 - Managing a large group 00:21:20 - Work-life balance 00:29:15 - Management challenges 00:39:45 -Practice acquisition 00:49:50 - Growth and expansion 01:01:05 - Relationships, family and culture 01:16:55 - Mental health and personal growth 01:25:35 - Closing questions About Anushika Brogan Anushika Brogan is one of the UK's leading dental entrepreneurs and the owner of Damira Dental Studios, a network of 42 dental practices across the south of England. 

In this deeply personal episode of Mind Movers, hosts Rhona Eskander and Payman Langroudi speak with makeup artist Cinta Miller.  The conversation explores Cinta's remarkable journey through profound personal losses, including the death of her mother and sister, a life-changing diagnosis at age 32, and her path to resilience.  Despite facing significant challenges, Cinta shares how she maintained a positive outlook while building a successful career in the beauty and music industry. The discussion touches on themes of grief, authenticity, gratitude, and finding joy in life's ordinary moments. In This Episode 00:01:45 - Career and backstory 00:21:25 - Loss and grief 00:30:35 - Travel and transformation 00:43:35 - Early menopause 00:54:50 - Egg donation and preservation 01:00:35 - Relationship and marriage 01:03:00 - Industry insight 01:14:00 - Finding joy and positivity About Cinta Miller Cinta Miller is a globally recognised makeup artist with over 25 years of experience working with celebrity clients in music, television, and fashion. Beyond her successful beauty career, she has expanded into music management, leveraging deep industry knowledge and relationships built from working with artists from the ground up throughout their careers.

Veteran dentist Mark Becker looks back on a 30+ year career in dentistry. Mark recounts following in his father's footsteps to establishing a chain practices across London—and the challenges of transitioning from NHS to private care along the way. He also discusses the evolution of dental technology and his approach to patient care and practice management while sharing candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of the profession. In This Episode 00:02:10 - Backstory 00:04:35 - Dental school and early career 00:07:35 - Family experience 00:13:45 - Early work experience 00:15:30 - Practice ownership 00:17:05 - Group ownership 00:23:10 - Patient communication 00:31:35 - Dental technology 00:38:15 - Location strategies 00:44:45 - Managing staff and building teams 00:49:10 - Blackbox thinking 01:00:05 - Treatment planning 01:13:45 - Cosmetic dentistry and teeth whitening 01:21:15 - Mental health in dentistry 01:23:35 - Last days and legacy About Mark Decker Mark Becker is a veteran UK dentist with over three decades of experience, following in the footsteps of his father who ran one of the first multi-practice dental chains in South Africa. After studying at Leeds University in the late 1980s, he has owned and operated several practices across London, including ventures in Ruislip and the West End, and now runs a modern private practice in Brent Cross Shopping Centre.

Hygienist Zara Shirvani discusses her unconventional journey from genetics via acting to dental hygiene.Zara geeks out on guided biofilm therapy and discusses her unique approach to patient care. She shares insights on the importance of dental teams working together, her experience across multiple practices, and her views on evolving hygiene techniques. The conversation also explores her Iranian heritage, future career aspirations, including facial aesthetics, and her perspectives on professional development in dentistry.In This Episode00:01:00 - Introduction and backstory00:14:30 - Studying at Eastman00:18:30 - The hygienist's experience00:26:30 - Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)00:36:30 - Iran00:41:35 - Working with dental nurses and practice dynamics00:51:50 - Blackbox thinking01:11:35 - Patient education and oral hygiene01:19:55 - Future career plans01:24:10 - Career and people skills01:26:15 - Fantasy dinner party guests and adviceAbout Zara ShirvaniZara Shirvani is a London-based dental hygienist who graduated from the Eastman Dental Institute in 2019 after studying genetics at Swansea University. She works across multiple private practices, is an ambassador for guided biofilm therapy, and is currently pursuing training in facial aesthetics.

Alex Hadley reflects on his journey from NHS dentistry to a thriving private practice, sharing insights on transitioning between roles, managing complex implant cases, and building patient trust through strong communication.  He highlights the importance of mentorship, the challenges of balancing work across multiple practices, and the impact of entering private dentistry on professional growth. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:01:10 - Introduction and background 00:03:15 - Mentors and early experiences 00:07:30 - NHS challenges 00:11:50 - Transition to private dentistry 00:18:30 - Managing multiple practices 00:25:00 - Insights on implant dentistry 00:32:10 - Value of mentorship 00:42:35 - Approach to complex cases 00:57:00 - Challenges in patient communication 1:11:40 - Future plans and teaching aspirations 01:37:10 - Reflections and advice About Alex Hadley Alex Hadley is a private dentist with expertise in restorative and implant dentistry.

Dooroo Ihm shares his journey from growing up in South Korea to practising dentistry across Europe and eventually settling in London. He discusses his unique career path, the value of listening to patients, and the importance of patient-first care. Dooroo also reflects on navigating different healthcare systems, the challenges of moving internationally, and his passion for both technical excellence and patient communication. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:00:05 - Patient communication & first impressions00:01:15 - Introduction and background00:02:00 - Comparing South Korean and UK dentistry00:03:30 - High-tech approaches in South Korea00:06:00 - Moving to Germany for school00:12:00 - Studying dentistry in Hungary00:18:05 - Starting work in Ireland00:23:15 - Lessons from a mentor in Ireland00:28:10 - Transitioning to practice in London00:32:25 - Specialising in endodontics00:35:50 - Studying periodontics at Eastman00:42:00 - Reflecting on patient care and ethics About Dooroo Ihm Dooroo Ihm is a London-based dentist known for his expertise in endodontics and periodontics. Originally from South Korea, Dooroo has practised in several countries, developing a patient-first philosophy and commitment to comprehensive care.

Steffen Decker shares his journey from adult orthodontics to a focus on paediatric and interceptive orthodontics, emphasising the importance of early intervention. He discusses the benefits of clear aligners for young children, how early treatment impacts overall health, and his belief in a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach to airway health. Steffen also reflects on the changes in orthodontics, advocating for education, and the significance of functional occlusion. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:00:05 - Combining orthodontic techniques00:01:00 - Introduction and background00:03:15 - Partnering with restorative dentists00:05:40 - Shifting focus to children's orthodontics00:09:25 - Clear aligners for kids00:14:15 - Health benefits of early orthodontics00:19:50 - Changes in orthodontics00:22:35 - Addressing airway and sleep issues00:28:10 - Key growth markers in kids00:34:00 - Training dentists on early intervention00:43:05 - Preventing alignment issues early About Steffen Decker Steffen Decker is a renowned orthodontist known for his work in paediatric and interceptive orthodontics. Originally trained in adult orthodontics, he now focuses on early intervention for children and collaborates with other health professionals to improve airway health. Steffen is passionate about functional occlusion and advocates for greater education in the field.

Polly Bhambra, co-owner of the Tri Dental group, shares her journey from dental nurse to overseeing ten dental practices in the West Midlands. She discusses the importance of empowering dental nurses, creating a respectful work environment, and the challenges and rewards of managing a large team. Polly also talks about her family's entrepreneurial background and the balancing act of building a dental group while raising a family. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:00:05 - Introduction and background00:01:10 - Empowering dental nurses00:04:00 - Career progression and training for staff00:07:45 - Managing change and overcoming resistance00:13:00 - Ideal practice model for growth00:17:45 - Handling a large team00:20:00 - Hiring and firing strategies00:25:30 - Supporting associates00:30:00 - Family influences and work-life balance00:34:00 - Expansion plans and building a legacy About Polly Bhambra Polly Bhambra is a co-owner of Tri Dental, a group of ten practices in the West Midlands. Starting her career as a dental nurse, Polly now leads a large team, focusing on growth, staff development, and patient care. She is known for her commitment to creating a respectful and empowering workplace.

James Morrison shares his journey from NHS dentistry to becoming a private cosmetic dentist in Bristol. He discusses the shift to cosmetic work during COVID-19, challenges in managing patient expectations, and insights on the evolving role of social media in dentistry. James opens up about his rare muscular condition and how it influenced his approach to work-life balance. He also shares valuable tips on patient communication and his streamlined consultation process. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:01:10 - Introduction and background00:01:45 - Transition to cosmetic dentistry00:02:55 - Handling patient expectations00:03:45 - Differences in patient demographics00:06:15 - Impact of social media00:09:00 - Streamlined consultations00:20:15 - Adjusting work-life balance00:35:30 - Discovering muscular dystrophy symptoms00:37:00 - Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy00:41:00 - Navigating physical limitations in dentistry00:42:05 - Growing the practice via Instagram01:02:35 - Fantasy dinner party guests01:05:10 - Reflections and advice About James Morrison James Morrison is a Bristol-based cosmetic dentist specializing in composite bonding and Invisalign treatments. Transitioning from NHS to private practice, he leverages social media to connect with patients and continues to excel despite facing personal health challenges.

Rhona and Payman chat with Angus Pringle, a specialist orthodontist with a deep interest in mental health and suicide prevention.  Angus shares his personal experiences with losing his brother to suicide. He discusses the importance of mental health awareness in the dental profession, touching on the need for compassion, open dialogue, and better support systems within the dental community and beyond. In This Episode 00:02:35 - Cycling challenge 00:05:25 - Safe spaces 00:07:45 - Suicide, stigma, and mental health 00:26:25 - GDC and mental health 00:34:15 - Perfectionism 00:41:35 - Politics and management 00:43:55 - Supporting patients 00:48:45 - Mental health language and conversations 00:56:35 - The orthodontist's perspective 00:58:25 - Empathy and non-judgmental approaches 01:04:35 - Egos and opinions About Angus Pringle Angus Pringle is a specialist orthodontist and mental health advocate practising in Winchester.

Former BACD president Andrew Chandrapal discusses his journey in dentistry, from his early days balancing dental school with music aspirations to becoming a respected clinician and educator.  He shares insights on the value of humility in dentistry, the impact of social media on patient expectations, and the significance of building trust with patients.  He also reflects on his experiences with the BACD and his approach to teaching. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:02:55 - Early years 00:05:35 - Personal loss 00:07:35 - Dentistry Vs music career 00:09:40 - Ego and humility 00:16:50 - Social media 00:23:55 - Treatment planning and patient communication 00:31:30 - Full mouth rehabilitation 00:47:50 - Blackbox thinking 00:55:05 - Teaching and education 01:16:35 - BACD 01:22:20 - Quick-fire questions 01:27:25 - Fantasy dinner party About Andrew Chandrapal Andrew Chandrapal is an aesthetic and restorative dentist and former president of the British Association of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD).

Payman Langroudi sits down with Dr. Zohaib Ali, a specialist prosthodontist and leader in the bio-emulation movement in the UK.  They discuss Dr. Ali's journey in dentistry, his experiences with various dental techniques and technologies, and his thoughts on education and patient care.  The conversation covers everything from the challenges of NHS dentistry to the importance of clear communication with patients and the future of digital dentistry. Enjoy! In This Episode 00:02:35 - Bio-emulative dentistry 00:07:15 - From Ireland to the UK 00:11:55 - Dental education 00:16:35 - Injection moulding techniques 00:21:25 - Financial crisis 00:24:35 - Specialisation 00:29:55 - Mental health awareness in dentistry 00:38:35 - Education, communication, and patient autonomy 00:49:50 - New technologies 00:54:55 - Responsibility 01:00:25 - Education: quality and variety 01:11:50 - Patient communication and treatment planning 01:19:35 - The Bio-emulation symposium 01:53:05 - Fantasy dinner party 01:54:30 - Last days and legacy About Zohaib Ali Zohaib Ali is a specialist prosthodontist interested in bio-emulative dentistry.

Dr Devinia Lavan-Iswaran (known as Coco) shares her inspiring journey from surviving domestic abuse to rediscovering herself and thriving as a dentist and mentor.  She discusses her multicultural upbringing, experiences in boarding school, and how she rebuilt her life and career after leaving an abusive marriage.  Coco offers insights into resilience, the importance of self-worth, and her passion for helping others through dentistry and charitable work. In This Episode 00:05:00 - Backstory 00:13:35 - Boarding school  00:24:05 - Study 00:26:50 - Early career 00:39:35 - Marriage, abuse and turning point 01:00:30 - Rebuilding 01:09:35 - Finding joy in dentistry 01:19:15 - Creating positive experiences for patients 01:25:45 - Blackbox thinking 01:29:10 - Charity work 01:33:30 - Fantasy dinner party About Coco Coco qualified from Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry in 1995. She currently works in private practice in Holborn, London.

Payman Langroudi meets Awaz Sharief, a young dentist with a special interest in minimally invasive endodontics.  Awaz shares her journey, personal challenges, and innovative approach to minimally invasive endodontics treatments.  The conversation covers clinical techniques, personal growth, faith, and the importance of emotional awareness. In This Episode 00:02:24 - Pulpotomy approach 00:05:35 - Back story 00:21:25 - Faith, belief, and finding meaning 00:24:35 - Personal growth 00:31:55 - Narcissism and emotional suppression 00:37:35 - Dentistry and teaching 00:43:45 - Work-life balance 00:55:50 - Women in dental education 01:01:10 - Fantasy dinner party and life advice About Awaz Sharief Awaz Sharief is a Greater Manchester-based dentist with a special interest in minimally invasive endodontics.

In this insightful episode, Dru Shah, a specialist periodontist and founder of the Dentinal Tubules network, discusses the state of dental education, personal growth, and the challenges facing the dental profession.  He shares his views on leadership, the importance of trust in dentistry, and the need for a more patient-centric approach. Dru also touches on broader societal issues, including multiculturalism and social integration. In This Episode 00:02:00 - Authenticity 00:04:35 - Reading and learning 00:07:10 - Repetition 00:08:35 - The challenge of engagement 00:16:35 - Learning styles 00:22:50 - Dentinal Tubules 00:25:55 - CPD and commoditisation 00:29:25 - Relationship-building 00:35:25 - Leadership and team management 00:41:35 - Awards and humility 00:44:45 - AI learning 00:52:50 - Career planning 00:57:50 - Dentinal Tubules Congress and future plans 01:03:55 - Unrest in the UK 01:15:55 - Multiculturalism, integration and breaking down barriers About Dru Shah Dhru is a specialist in periodontics and the CEO of Dentinal Tubules, an online training platform for dentists across the globe.

Rhona and Payman chat with Levi Levenfiche, co-founder of PerfectTed, Europe's first matcha-powered energy drink company. Levi shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges of starting a business with family members, the impact of appearing on Dragon's Den, and the rapid growth of PerfectTed.  The conversation covers various aspects of running a start-up, from product development and marketing strategies to managing team dynamics and personal mental health. In This Episode 00:01:10 - Backstory 00:04:35 - PerfectTed origins 00:18:35 - Dragon's Den 00:27:20 - Product growth 00:31:50 - Business and family 00:37:35 - Marketing and brand building 00:41:55 - Perfect Ted roadmap 00:46:35 - Personal challenges 00:51:20 - Hiring and managing a growing team 00:56:50 - Thinking big 01:04:50 - Dentistry and confidence 01:06:35 - Business mistakes About Levi Levenfiche Levi Levenfiche is the co-founder and managing director of the PerfectTed organic matcha energy drink brand. 

Payman Langroudi chats with Giovanni Martino, a young Italian dentist practising in the UK. Giovanni shares his journey from studying dentistry in Italy to working in the NHS and private practice in the UK. Giovanni discusses the importance of continuing education, challenges and opportunities in dentistry and how his musical background has influenced his approach to dentistry. In This Episode 00:03:55 - Background with the Delta Academy 00:05:50 - Teaching and learning 00:08:45 - Work and the UK 00:14:00 - Music and dentistry 00:21:10 - Patient communication 00:28:25 - Study in Italy and Spain 00:37:35 - DJing 00:43:00 - Fatherhood 00:51:30 - UK Vs Italian dentistry 00:57:55 - Unrest in the UK 01:04:35 - Patient-driven orthodontics 01:15:45 - Adhesive dentistry and "aha" moments 01:25:25 - Thoughts on practice ownership 01:37:35 - Standardization and corporate dentistry 01:40:10 - Blackbox thinking 01:44:20 - Fantasy dinner party  01:45:54 - Last day and legacy About Dr Giovanni Martino Dr Giovanni Martino graduated with a Diploma in Dentistry from the University of L'Aquila, Italy, in 2017. He now practices in Bristol, UK.

Payman Langroudi chats with May Firoozmand, a young dentist who recently qualified from Bulgaria. May shares her journey into dentistry, her experiences studying abroad, and her perspective on life and service shaped by her Baha'i faith. The conversation covers topics ranging from her dental education in Bulgaria to her charitable work and future aspirations in dentistry. In This Episode 00:02:35 - Faith 00:07:35 - Family influence 00:14:50 - Study 00:19:20 - Oral surgery 00:23:25 - Bulgaria 00:29:35 - Charity and community  00:43:40 - Faith and personal loss 00:49:15 - Oral surgery career paths 00:54:15 - Mentoring and support 00:57:30 - Fantasy dinner party 01:00:25 - Last days and legacy About May Firoozmand May Firoozmand graduated in May 2024 from the Medical University Varna with a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine).

Dr Tara recounts her journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming a leading voice in sexual education and empowerment.  The professor and sex expert shares her personal experiences with marriage, divorce, and finding a fulfilling relationship, while also delving into topics such as sexual mindfulness, the impact of cultural norms on relationships, and the complexities of infidelity.  Enjoy! In This Episode 00:02:00 - Background 00:04:35 - Religion, culture and sexuality 00:08:35 - Body neutrality and body image 00:16:50 - Academia 00:20:20 - Sexual chemistry 00:26:25 - Divorce and healing 00:31:30 - Relationships and monogamy 00:41:00 - Sexual mindfulness 00:45:45 - Pornography and ethics 00:52:50 - Toxic masculinity 00:57:20 - Celebs Go Dating 01:06:35 - Infidelity 01:25:50 - Future plans About Dr Tara Dr. Tara is a tenured professor at California State University Fullerton, where she teaches relational and sexual communication and quantitative research. She is also a researcher and appears as a sex expert on the TV show Celebs Go Dating. Dr Tara is also the host of the Luvbites by Dr Tara Podcast.

Payman meets Kunal Thakker, the founder of Tooth Club, a rapidly growing dental practice group in the UK. Kunal shares his journey from a career in banking to disrupting the dental industry, discussing his approach to creating a patient-centric experience, scaling a dental business, and the challenges of maintaining quality while expanding.  He offers insights into his marketing strategies, recruitment practices, and the importance of company culture in building a successful dental group. In This Episode 00:04:35 - Backstory 00:09:50 - From finance to dentistry 00:21:10 - Tooth Club 00:25:25 - Setting up squats 00:31:25 - Recruiting and retaining 00:37:35 - Measuring success 00:43:00 - Painless injections 00:49:55 - Management and structure 00:57:30 - Marketing 01:08:25 - Ethics and motivation 01:25:35 - Blackbox thinking 01:27:20 - Fantasy dinner party  01:28:20 - Last days and legacy About Kunal Thakker Kunal Thakker is a former executive director at Goldman Sachs and the founder of Tooth Club—a membership-based chain of dental practices.

Payman Langroudi chats with Mark Allan, General Manager of Bupa Dental Care. Mark shares insights into leading one of the UK's largest private healthcare organisations, discusses current challenges and opportunities in the dental industry, and offers valuable leadership advice.  The conversation touches on corporate dentistry, talent acquisition, the importance of listening to frontline staff, and how tech is shaping the industry's future. In This Episode 00:00:55 - Dentistry—first impressions 00:06:00 - Bupa's brand, reputation and impact 00:10:30 - Organisation and structure 00:14:15 - Recruitment and career progression 00:24:50 - Frontline staff and corporate strategies 00:28:35 - Dental insurance 00:33:55 - Leadership approach 00:38:35 - Work-life balance 00:47:45 - Bupa's acquisitions and strategy 00:52:50 - Data and AI 01:06:35 - Fantasy dinner party 01:14:35 - Last days and legacy About Mark Allan Mark Allan is the General Manager of Bupa Dental Care. Prior to this role, he served as General Manager for Business & Specialist Products in Bupa's UK Insurance business, responsible for the commercial leadership of business & specialist products, SME and corporate channels for private medical and dental insurance.

Manrina Rhode recounts her journey from practice fresh from dental school in high-end London clinics to owner and CEO of the upscale DRMR practice and medical skincare line. She discusses her experiences in cosmetic dentistry, teaching, product development, and practice management. Dr. Rhode also opens up about personal challenges, including divorce and loss, and how these experiences have shaped her both personally and professionally.  In This Episode 00:01:15 - Evolution of Veneers 00:04:35 - Backstory and pursuing dentistry 00:16:35 - Early career 00:41:35 - Work ethic and generational differences 00:54:50 - Personal Challenges 01:07:00 - Practice ownership 01:21:45 - Product development 01:29:30 - Teaching and mentoring 01:46:35 - Quick-fire questions 01:50:50 - Fantasy dinner party 01:51:50 - Last days and legacy About Manrina Rhode Manrina Rhode is a cosmetic dentist and founder of the DRMR dental clinic, aesthetic studio and medical skincare brand.

This week, we take a walk into the archives with a look back at an early conversation with a true dental leader. Andy Moore discusses balancing his stellar career with a healthy, happy home life, reveals the story behind his architecturally stunning practice, and gives a peek into hanging out with Richard Branson and Larry Page.  Enjoy!   In This Episode 02:12 – The perfect environment for practice 13: 07 – The power of delegating 15:03 – Hiring process – an oft-overlooked trait 18:43 – Achieving work-life balance 25:21 – Getting into implants 35:13 – A life-changing case 47:05 – Teaching other dentists   About Andrew Moore Andrew is a dentist, educator and owner of Advance Dental Clinic, which was given an award for design by the Royal Institute of British Architects.