Dental Leaders Podcast

Raj Ahlowalia's remarkable 33-year journey in a single practice reveals what true dedication to the craft looks like. From almost missing university entirely to becoming an internationally recognised authority on functional occlusion, his story challenges everything we think we know about dental careers. The son of a polyglot interpreter who hitchhiked from India to the UK, Raj stumbled into dentistry through a teacher's intervention, then methodically built expertise that took him from Biggleswade to the stages of Pankey and Spear. His time on Extreme Makeover taught him the crucial difference between patients who want cosmetic work and those who genuinely need rehabilitation—a distinction that shaped his entire philosophy of practice.In This Episode00:07:15 - Father's extraordinary hitchhiking journey from India00:19:20 - The accidental path to dentistry00:39:25 - First job and VT experience00:44:15 - Extreme Makeover TV breakthrough01:13:15 - Teaching at Pankey and Spear institutes01:28:00 - Blackbox thinking01:31:40 - Forced retirement due to spinal issues01:34:05 - Photography passion and flying adventures01:59:25 - Learning NLP and hypnosis techniques02:03:40 - Patient litigation experience02:15:00 - Fantasy dinner party02:15:25 - Last days and legacyAbout Raj AhlowaliaRaj spent his entire 33-year career at one practice in Biggleswade, evolving from VT to an internationally recognised expert in functional occlusion. He taught at both the Pankey Institute and for Frank Spear, appeared on the Extreme Makeover TV show, pioneering the first implant shown on British television, and developed a comprehensive approach to full-mouth rehabilitation that emphasises function over pure aesthetics.

Ashkan returns to reveal how Southcliffe Dental transformed from near-bankruptcy to unprecedented profitability through a revolutionary therapist-led model. From losing half his body weight to facing GDC proceedings, he opens up about the personal costs of rapid expansion and the dark period when £4 million in clawbacks nearly destroyed everything. His ex-wife's intervention during his lowest moment becomes a turning point, leading to a complete business overhaul that's now attracting attention from private equity firms across the sector. Raw, unfiltered, and brutally honest about the realities of corporate dental leadership.In This Episode00:01:25 - Quality over quantity mindset shift00:02:50 - The £4 million clawback crisis00:06:00 - Revolutionary therapist business model00:17:35 - Organisational restructure and delegation00:25:30 - Leadership philosophy and high standards00:30:50 - Physical transformation journey00:46:45 - GDC proceedings and workplace allegations01:04:25 - Blackbox thinking01:17:05 - Clinical errors and patient management01:23:15 - Business decisions and banking relationships01:33:15 - Fantasy dinner party01:08:45 - Last days and legacyAbout Ashkan PitchforthAshkan is the CEO and co-founder of Southcliffe Dental Group, which operates 24 mixed NHS practices employing around 400 people. He pioneered an innovative therapist-led delivery model that has revolutionised the group's profitability, taking EBITDA from zero to 7-8 million within two years. A clinical dentist turned entrepreneur, he's known for his direct leadership style and willingness to challenge conventional dental business models.

Two Iranian dentists who took the scenic route to British dentistry, Sara Khandan and Mahan Mohaghegh's story reads like a masterclass in adaptability. From Tehran to Debrecen University in Hungary, then straight into the UK without ever having set foot in the country before, their journey showcases both the challenges and rewards of international dental careers. Now transitioning from NHS to private practice, they share candid insights about navigating visa dependencies, cultural differences between healthcare systems, and why being top of your class doesn't guarantee an easy path. Their conversation reveals how different countries approach dentistry, from Hungary's more invasive techniques to the UK's preventive focus, and why sometimes the most circuitous routes lead to the most rewarding destinations.In This Episode00:01:15 - Arriving in the UK without ever having visited before00:03:30 - Why they chose Hungary for dental education over Iran00:05:30 - First impressions of Hungary and cultural differences00:08:25 - Military service requirements forcing early departure from Iran00:10:15 - Financial challenges of studying abroad00:13:10 - Hungarian education system: oral exams and luck factors00:17:00 - Working in Hungary's NHS-equivalent system00:19:15 - Cultural differences: Eastern European "egg" vs Western "peach"00:25:15 - The decision to move to the UK post-Brexit00:29:50 - Landing NHS jobs sight unseen00:34:10 - Learning UK dentistry systems and mentorship importance00:38:30 - NHS complaint system challenges00:40:25 - The band system frustrations00:43:25 - Visa dependency limiting job opportunities00:47:00 - Transition to private practice00:52:55 - Future aspirations: cosmetics vs surgical specialisation00:59:15 - Darkest day: fear and uncertainty in early UK days01:03:25 - Blackbox thinking01:06:40 - TMJ dislocation during extraction01:10:25 - Being top of class vs visa reality check01:14:20 - Best dental lectures and mentorship value01:18:20 - Fantasy dinner party01:20:55 - Last days and legacyAbout Sara Khandan and Mahan MohagheghSara Khandan and Mahan Mohaghegh are Iranian-born dentists who graduated from the University of Debrecen in Hungary before relocating to the UK. After three years of practice in Hungary's public healthcare system, they moved to the UK and completed two and a half years in the NHS before transitioning to private practice. Sara is pursuing advanced cosmetic dentistry training, whilst Mahan is focusing on surgical procedures and implant dentistry. Both are planning to eventually open their own practice within the next five to six years.

From knife crime in East London to owning one of the capital's most successful dental laboratories, Kash Qureshi's story is one of remarkable transformation. At just 15, a violent altercation became the catalyst that changed everything, pushing him from a dangerous path towards an apprenticeship that would define his future. Now owner of Swiss Dent and a thriving denture clinic, Kash shares the raw realities of growing up on the streets, the technical mastery required in dental technology, and the leadership skills needed to build a business. This conversation explores how early adversity can forge unstoppable resilience, and why sometimes the most unlikely backgrounds produce the most determined entrepreneurs.In This Episode00:03:50 - Street life and knife incidents in Walthamstow00:07:10 - Finding dental technology through newspaper adverts00:11:15 - Apprenticeship training and specialisation paths00:14:25 - Why crown and bridge got outsourced to CAD/CAM00:17:00 - Clinical dental technician qualification and denture work00:26:05 - Transition from employee to business owner00:30:05 - Acquiring Swiss Dent with zero personal investment00:34:00 - Cold calling and door-to-door client acquisition00:39:30 - Clinical insights: overextended special trays revelation00:42:10 - Swiss system for aesthetic denture setups00:48:55 - Immediate loading implant techniques01:08:25 - Managing 100-200 cases daily at the laboratory01:18:25 - Blackbox thinking01:24:25 - Cash crisis: when payroll meets empty accounts01:26:40 - Fantasy dinner party01:39:35 - Last days and legacyAbout Kash QureshiKash Qureshi is the owner of Swiss Dent laboratory in London and operates a clinical denture practice. Starting as a 16-year-old apprentice at the very lab he now owns, Kash has grown the business from 7 to 18 employees whilst developing expertise in prosthetics and digital denture technology. He qualified as a clinical dental technician at 23, making him one of the youngest in the country at the time, and now trains dentists in digital denture techniques.

Shameek Popat takes us on a remarkable journey from his early days as a Ugandan-born dentist to becoming a serial entrepreneur disrupting the oral care industry. After 23 years of successful practice ownership, Shameek sold to Portman Dental and launched Tooth Angel, a luxury, eco-friendly oral care brand that's challenging the sustainability narrative in dentistry. Now he's back with Disruptive Smiles, partnering with renowned educators to bring premium composite materials to UK dentists. This conversation reveals a man who's never lost his childhood curiosity, whether he's crafting whisky blends, designing sustainable toothbrushes, or simply asking the big questions about contentment versus pleasure.In This Episode00:02:35 - Philosophy and losing senses 00:05:10 - Personal adaptability 00:07:40 - Contentment versus pleasure 00:09:10 - Beauty in imperfection 00:11:40 - Tooth Angel sustainability mission 00:16:50 - Research-backed product development 00:20:15 - Manual versus electric preference 00:24:30 - Dentist-made products 00:34:25 - Investment and funding strategy 00:50:35 - Uganda origins and Idi Amin 00:53:15 - Education journey to Manchester 00:57:50 - Dental school with Avi Banerjee 01:00:30 - Early practice ownership 01:04:30 - Kois transformation 01:15:20 - Team retention philosophy 01:20:10 - Whisky passion projects 01:24:00 - Practice sale emotions 01:26:40 - Disruptive Smiles launch 01:35:40 - Blackbox thinking 01:47:00 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Shameek PopatShameek Popat is a Kois-trained dentist who spent 23 years building and running successful practices before selling to Portman Dental. He's the founder of Tooth Angel, a luxury eco-friendly oral care brand, and co-founder of Disruptive Smiles, which distributes premium composite materials alongside clinical education. Born in Uganda and educated across three continents, Shameek brings a unique global perspective to everything he creates.

This fly-on-the-wall conversation between Kailesh Solanki and Dev Patel, founder and CEO of Dental Beauty Partners (DBP), captures the remarkable 20-year journey of Kiss Dental, from a risky startup in a Flixton suburb to an eight-clinic powerhouse.Kailesh Solanki reveals how he mortgaged himself to the eyeballs at just two years post-graduation, survived near-bankruptcy, weathered a catastrophic flood, and built one of the UK's most respected dental brands. The discussion explores his unique VT scheme that's producing the country's top-earning young dentists, the partner model that's breaking industry boundaries, and why keeping things "stupid and simple" might just be the secret sauce to sustainable growth.In This Episode01:15 - Starting Kiss Dental in 2005 02:15 - Taking the entrepreneurial leap after graduation 03:05 - Going fully private from day one 05:15 - Team as the key to longevity 06:30 - Most difficult periods in business 07:40 - Near bankruptcy from marketing spend 09:25 - Brother Prav's marketing transformation 11:40 - Vision for multiple practices and branding 14:15 - Growth expectations versus reality 20:05 - The VT scheme philosophy 21:25 - Partner model development 25:10 - Expansion plans26:30 - Five-year aspirations for 15+ clinics 28:15 - VT scheme versus traditional associates 35:25 - Two-year VT program structure 41:55 - Biggest hurdle: the 2012 flood disaster 46:50 - COVID and the 2020 rebrand 50:25 - Technology, passion and innovation 53:45 - Advice for young dentistsAbout Kailesh Solanki and Dev PatelKailesh Solanki is the founder and CEO of Kiss Dental, which he established in 2005 at just 25 years old after completing his dental training. Having built the practice from a single Flixton clinic to eight locations across the North West, he's become recognised for his innovative VT training scheme and partner model. His approach combines high-end private dentistry with accessible suburban locations, creating one of the UK's most successful dental brands over the past two decades.Dev Patel is the founder and CEO of Dental Beauty Partners (DBP), a UK-based dental group that has grown rapidly by acquiring and partnering with dental practices to scale their businesses through a people-focused investment approach. DBP operates a large network of dental practices across the UK and is known for its partnership-based corporate model.

Two remarkable women share their extraordinary journey from India to building three thriving NHS practices in the UK. Gauri Pradhan and Shivani Bhandari discuss their innovative therapist-led model that's revolutionising NHS dentistry, creating happy workplaces where staff genuinely want to be. From navigating the brutal ORE exam process to developing a groundbreaking patient app, they reveal how genuine friendship and shared values can build something remarkable. Their refreshing take on NHS dentistry challenges every assumption about what's possible in modern practice.In This Episode00:01:05 - Practice ownership journey and location in Cheltenham00:03:20 - Family background in dentistry and choosing oral surgery00:06:25 - Decision to move from India to the UK00:09:25 - Shivani's path from dentist to dental nurse to management00:12:15 - Team culture and treating staff like family00:20:45 - First practice acquisition during COVID00:28:15 - Innovative therapist-led NHS model00:35:20 - Making NHS dentistry work profitably00:50:00 - DPS UK app development and technology innovation00:58:45 - Blackbox thinking - learning from clinical mistakes01:08:20 - ORE exam struggles and eventual success01:26:20 - Future expansion plans and business philosophy01:34:40 - Fantasy dinner party guests01:37:15 - Last days and legacy adviceAbout Gauri Pradhan & Shivani BhandariGauri Pradhan is a qualified oral surgeon who moved from India to the UK, eventually transitioning to general dentistry after completing her ORE qualification. Shivani Bhandari made the bold decision to pivot from dentistry to practice management after working as a dental nurse with Oasis. Together, they own three mixed practices in the Bristol and Cheltenham area, pioneering an innovative therapist-led model that's making NHS dentistry both profitable and enjoyable for their teams.

Fresh from Barcelona's dental schools and thrust into the realities of UK practice, Patric Saraby brings a refreshing perspective on what it truly means to start a dental career. This Iranian-born, multilingual dentist shares his journey from A-level disappointment to Spanish success, and now to the coalface of NHS dentistry in Bournemouth. With brutal honesty about clinical mistakes, cultural observations that'll make you think twice about British attitudes to success, and insights on why communication trumps technical skill, Patric offers a masterclass in adaptation and resilience. His story isn't just about dentistry—it's about the immigrant mentality that drives excellence, the power of manifestation, and why sometimes the best path forward isn't the one you originally planned.In This Episode00:01:35 - First job realities and the deep end experience00:02:20 - What surprised him most about practice life00:05:05 - NHS time pressures and appointment constraints00:08:25 - Amalgam versus composite: the material debate00:09:05 - Communication as half the job00:15:15 - Persian philosophy and karma beliefs00:18:30 - Religious perspectives and greater powers00:23:05 - A-levels disappointment and plan B moments00:28:40 - Spanish warmth and cultural connection00:36:05 - Barcelona application process00:42:30 - Language barriers and learning curves00:53:50 - Blackbox thinking00:59:40 - Corporate practice experience with Bupa01:12:30 - Patient reviews and building reputation01:16:15 - Manifestation and goal achievement01:27:10 - Favourite periodontics lecture01:34:15 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Patric SarabyPatric is an Iranian-born dentist who qualified from Barcelona after initially being rejected from UK dental schools. He currently works at a Bupa practice in Bournemouth, balancing NHS and private work whilst navigating his first year in practice. Coming from a dental family and speaking multiple languages, he brings a unique international perspective to UK dentistry.

Hap Gill takes us on a fascinating journey from his early days "bashing the Nash" to becoming a pioneer in comprehensive dentistry and communication. With characteristic honesty, he shares how a transformative experience at the Pankey Institute opened his eyes to occlusion and patient care, whilst his unexpected background as a dating coach revolutionised his approach to patient communication.From team management crises to clinical breakthroughs, Hap reveals the mindset shifts that transformed both his practice and his patients' lives, proving that being brave enough to step outside your comfort zone can lead to extraordinary results.In This Episode00:01:45 - Early career struggles and "bashing the Nash"00:05:00 - Discovery of the Pankey Institute00:07:00 - First day revelation: "Design your ideal day"00:08:40 - Born brave or shaped by upbringing?00:09:20 - Growing up in Hounslow with teacher father00:11:45 - Privilege and parenting perspectives00:17:40 - Career advice: Communication trumps clinical skills00:23:25 - Dating coach secrets applied to dentistry00:34:35 - Team management crisis: Three resignations in one week00:40:30 - Blackbox thinking00:49:45 - Clinical stories and treatment philosophy00:57:20 - Occlusion aha moments: Anterior guidance revelation01:06:25 - Biggest case: RTA patient reconstruction01:11:05 - Best lecture ever01:16:25 - Fantasy dinner party01:21:40 - Last days and legacyAbout Hap GillHap Gill qualified as a dentist in 1991 and spent his early years working in NHS practice before discovering comprehensive dentistry through the Pankey Institute. Based in Richmond, he runs a private practice focused on restorative dentistry, occlusion, and exceptional patient communication. Known for his innovative approach to treatment planning and team management, Hap combines clinical excellence with business acumen, drawing from diverse experiences including an unexpected stint as a dating coach.

Mahmoud Ibrahim, known as the "Occlusion Ninja," transforms the complex world of occlusion into practical, everyday dentistry wisdom. From nearly abandoning his dental career to becoming one of the UK's most sought-after occlusion educators, Mahmoud shares his journey of obsessive learning and the simple truth that changed everything: occlusion is just force management. He reveals common mistakes that plague restorative work, explains why your composite veneers might be chipping, and discusses his partnership with Jaz Gulati in revolutionising dental education. This conversation blends technical excellence with honest reflections on clinical errors, the pursuit of perfection, and finding meaning in both success and failure.In This Episode00:02:15 - Force management fundamentals00:08:25 - Bruxism00:18:20 - Restorations00:27:25 - Last tooth syndrome00:32:05 - Basic occlusal examination00:35:15 - Lab communication secrets00:42:20 - Awakenings, revelations, obsessions00:49:20 - Mentors and Jaz01:16:40 - Course development01:32:35 - Blackbox thinking01:38:55 - Ethics and motivation01:42:00 - Inspirational lectures, courses and papers01:51:05 - Fantasy dinner party01:54:40 - Last days and legacyAbout Mahmoud IbrahimMahmoud Ibrahim is a general dentist and renowned occlusion educator, widely known as the "Occlusion Ninja" from his collaborations with Jaz Gulati. Based in Birmingham, he's transformed from someone who initially wanted to escape dentistry into one of the UK's most respected voices in occlusal education. He co-created the popular OB (Occlusion Basics) course and runs the Bulletproof and Unshakeable live courses, focusing on making complex occlusal principles accessible for everyday dental practice.

In this powerful episode of the Dental Leaders Podcast, Prav sits down with Kiran Malviya, Vice President of Enterprise Solutions at Straumann Group EMEA.Kiran’s story is one of quiet defiance, cultural grace, and relentless ambition.From a traditional Indian upbringing in Nagpur to global leadership at Philips and now Vice President of Enterprise Solutions at Straumann Group EMEA, Kiran has walked a path few would dare to take.In this deeply personal episode of the Dental Leaders Podcast, Kiran shares how she navigated an arranged marriage, strict family expectations, and the joint family system - not by fighting back, but by playing the long game with dignity and respect, guided by the strong values instilled in her by her parents.We explore how she built a thriving dental practice, pursued a full-time MBA with a 7-year-old at home, and entered the corporate world with no prior experience - ultimately landing in high-impact leadership roles on the global stage.She opens up about love, motherhood, leadership, ambition, and the deep meaning behind her tattoos.A raw, thoughtful, and truly original conversation.In This Episode00:00:05 - Potential vs performance00:05:25 - Childhood in Nagpur, India00:08:25 - Traditional Indian upbringing and gender roles00:11:05 - Early rebellion and feminist poetry00:16:20 - Arranged marriage system in India00:18:55 - Reverse engineering her marriage proposal00:21:45 - Philosophy on love and marriage00:24:00 - Dental school admission in India00:27:20 - Joint family dynamics and restrictions on working00:33:15 - Strategic navigation of family expectations00:36:05 - Financial challenges and seven-year plan00:39:10 - Decision to pursue MBA00:42:30 - Meeting her mentor at Philips00:44:25 - MBA experience and personality transformation00:48:35 - Move to Delhi and Phillips career00:51:00 - Learning sales and finding her niche00:57:45 - Leadership philosophy and authenticity01:08:25 - Cultural differences between Philips and Straumann01:13:25 - Player learner culture at Straumann01:15:20 - Work-life balance and working patterns01:18:10 - Challenges of being a woman leader01:22:55 - Future career aspirations01:26:55 - Transition from Philips to Straumann01:28:10 - Advice to younger self01:28:35 - The tattoo stories01:32:50 - Current living arrangement with husband01:39:15 - Definition of success01:45:15 - Last days and legacy01:47:35 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Kiran MalviyaKiran Malviya is Vice President of Enterprise Solutions at Straumann Group EMEA, where she is known for her decisive leadership, empathy, and ability to inspire cross-functional teams.She spent over a decade at Philips, leading across sales, marketing, and business development, with a strong focus on global key accounts and digital transformation.Originally trained as a dentist in India, she transitioned into the corporate world after earning her MBA from the Indian School of Business, and now leads with a powerful blend of strategy, heart, and authenticity.

Chris O'Connor opens up about his journey from academic burnout to building Incidental, sharing hard-won insights about workaholic tendencies, clinical mastery, and the realities of running a dental supply business. This episode explores the darker side of perfectionism, the complexity of clinical decision-making, and how childhood experiences shape professional drive. O'Connor discusses everything from innovative matrixing techniques to the emotional toll of litigation, offering a brutally honest perspective on modern dentistry practice.In This Episode00:01:00 - Newcastle move 00:01:45 - PhD research 00:03:00 - Clinical trials 00:11:15 - Career transition 00:15:10 - Workaholic tendencies 00:16:45 - Family background 00:21:25 - Workflow obsession 00:24:30 - Russian sanctions 00:26:30 - Founding Incidental 00:31:05 - Clinical weaknesses 00:36:25 - Patient experience 00:42:35 - Customer relationships 00:47:05 - Marketing approach 00:54:10 - Teaching philosophy 00:57:10 - Product development 01:02:30 - Regulatory challenges 01:04:20 - Parenting struggles 01:07:15 - Rubber dam techniques 01:12:35 - Matrix systems 01:19:50 - Blackbox thinking 01:25:25 - Complex cases 01:32:35 - Pricing structure 01:42:35 - Best lecture 01:46:50 - Future aspirations 01:48:15 - Fantasy dinner party 01:50:25 - Last days and legacyAbout Chris O'ConnorChris O'Connor is a dentist, dental supplier, and product developer based in Newcastle. He co-founded Incidental, a dental supply company known for innovative matrixing solutions and educational courses. A former clinical academic, Chris spent eight years at Newcastle Dental Hospital conducting research and teaching before transitioning to practice and business.

Prav returns to host this deeply personal conversation with Rob van Geffen, Chief Marketing Officer at Straumann, who shares his extraordinary journey from a carefree childhood in the Netherlands to leading one of dentistry's most influential organisations.In this deeply personal conversation, Rob explores how energy shapes every interaction, why vulnerability became his greatest leadership strength, and how a men's group 19 years ago transformed his approach to fatherhood and business. He reveals the challenges of letting go, both as a parent and leader whilst maintaining the authentic connections that drive Straumann's family culture. This isn't just a story about climbing the corporate ladder; it's about discovering that true leadership starts with understanding yourself.In This Episode00:00:05 - Children as mirrors of our bright and dark sides 00:06:10 - Father's death and the gift of presence 00:09:00 - Father Fire: men's emotional development 00:13:45 - Everything is energy philosophy 00:19:10 - Leading through energy and memorable experiences 00:26:25 - Vulnerability as leadership strength 00:28:15 - Letting go of sons 00:38:10 - Career journey from trenches to boardroom 00:55:05 - Blackbox thinking 01:01:35 - Joining the Straumann family 01:28:20 - Culture as competitive advantage 01:33:40 - Play learner philosophy 01:35:40 - Physical fitness and morning routines 01:44:00 - Last days and legacy 01:51:45 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Robert van GeffenRobert van Geffen is the Chief Marketing Officer at Straumann, where he leads a global marketing and commercial excellence team of more than 100 people. Together, they animate the heartbeat of the customer journey and create smiles and confidence for millions of customers worldwide.A proud father of three sons, Rob combines sharp business acumen with a deep belief in emotional and energetic intelligence. His leadership is rooted in authenticity and guided by heart-led values that bring out the best in people and performance alike.

Kiran Shankla's journey reveals the transformative power of persistence paired with strategic self-reflection. From a sports-loving teenager who initially resisted academic pressure to a multi-award-winning dentist specialising in minimally invasive techniques, her story demonstrates that success often comes through consistent effort rather than natural talent. Through setbacks in Australia, rigorous postgraduate training at the Eastman, and building expertise in ICON treatment, Kiran shows how embracing continuous learning and maintaining perspective can lead to both professional achievement and personal contentment. Her approach to balancing clinical excellence with work-life harmony offers valuable insights for dentists navigating their own career paths.In This Episode00:01:25 - Awards motivation and tactics 00:07:40 - Award application strategies 00:11:30 - Childhood ambition and sporting background 00:14:25 - Grammar school decisions and academic awakening00:16:35 - Career-defining phone call about dentistry 00:18:10 - University challenges and determination 00:21:45 - Foundation training in Slough 00:26:25 - Australia adventure and reality check 00:31:05 - Eastman Masters journey 00:38:10 - Patient communication and treatment planning 00:42:15 - Key opinion leader opportunities 00:50:40 - Continuing education philosophy 00:55:20 - ICON treatment expertise 01:07:00 - Blackbox thinking 01:16:35 - Fantasy dinner party 01:18:30 - Last days and legacyAbout Kiran ShanklaKiran Shankla is a multi-award-winning general dentist with a Masters in Restorative Dentistry from UCL Eastman. Based in Reading, she works across multiple practices focusing on minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She serves as a Key Opinion Leader for DMG and SDI, with a focus on ICON infiltration therapy and teaching dentists across the UK whilst maintaining a commitment to high-quality patient care.

Mahsa Balaie embodies the truth that sometimes life's biggest detours lead to its greatest destinations. From engineering to Spain, from associate to practice owner, her journey reveals the power of diving in completely when opportunities arise. Through personal struggles, professional challenges, and the complexities of balancing motherhood with business ownership, Mahsa demonstrates that success isn't about avoiding difficulties—it's about swimming through them with determination. Her story resonates with anyone juggling multiple life transitions whilst building something meaningful, proving that the most common stories in dentistry are often the most inspiring ones.In This Episode00:02:15 - Half marathon metaphor and life philosophy 00:04:30 - Fitness transformation journey00:08:20 - Health wake-up call and surgery 00:13:30 - All-in personality and engineering background 00:16:35 - Mental health struggles and Spain escape 00:19:35 - Learning Spanish and dental assisting 00:22:30 - Materials engineering experience 00:26:25 - University pathway and parental guidance 00:29:15 - Valencia dental school experience 00:34:45 - Spain versus UK dentistry comparison 00:38:10 - Clinical development and treatment philosophy 00:43:35 - Meeting husband and family planning 00:48:10 - Practice acquisition and patient communication 00:50:05 - Business ownership challenges 00:53:25 - Maternity leave difficulties and staff management 00:58:10 - Hiring and firing experiences 01:06:30 - Team building and staff incentives 01:13:45 - Blackbox thinking 01:24:25 - Fantasy dinner party01:26:45 - Last days and legacyAbout Mahsa BalaieMahsa Balaie is a general dentist and practice owner in Tunbridge Wells. After completing a dental materials engineering degree, she studied dentistry at the University of Valencia, working as a dental assistant whilst learning Spanish. Following five years as an associate in Portsmouth, she purchased her current practice, where she focuses on aesthetic dentistry whilst balancing the demands of motherhood and business ownership.

Doctor Solmaz Samae embodies the power of authenticity in dentistry—someone who speaks her truth with refreshing honesty. From building a successful business empire in Iran to studying dentistry in Latvia at 30, her unconventional journey reveals what happens when passion meets persistence. Now practising across multiple settings whilst building a thriving YouTube presence, Solmaz demonstrates that happiness in dentistry comes from genuinely caring about the patient experience. Her candid reflections on everything from charity work motivations to the challenges of mixed NHS-private practice offer valuable insights for dentists navigating their own paths to contentment and success.In This Episode00:01:40 - Current life satisfaction 00:02:40 - Six-pack goal and fitness routine 00:05:35 - Working across multiple practices 00:10:40 - Corporate versus independent experiences 00:16:05 - Communication versus clinical skills 00:20:15 - YouTube content creation journey 00:23:25 - Persian content and safety concerns 00:28:15 - Facial aesthetics expertise 00:31:05 - Hair loss treatments and personal experience 00:34:50 - Treatment philosophy and patient selection 00:40:45 - Blackbox thinking 00:46:35 - Turbulent journey to dentistry 00:53:50 - Business ventures in Iran 00:55:45 - Studying dentistry in Latvia 01:00:30 - Advantages and challenges of studying abroad 01:11:00 - Vision for dream practice 01:16:25 - Charity work in refugee camps 01:22:25 - Fantasy dinner party 01:24:30 - Last days and legacyAbout Solmaz SamaeDoctor Solmaz Samae is an aesthetic dentist and facial aesthetics practitioner working across multiple practices in London. After building successful businesses in Iran, she pursued dentistry at RSU in Latvia, graduating in 2018. She combines clinical practice with content creation through her Persian YouTube channel and runs a facial aesthetics clinic on Harley Street with her sisters.

This compelling episode features Lala, the anonymous voice behind "Lalalaletmeexplain" - a former social worker turned influential author who's helped thousands recognise red flags and find their worth. Rhona and Payman explore deeply personal territory as Lala shares her childhood trauma, decade-long career in child protection, and the systemic failures she witnessed firsthand. The conversation weaves through heavy topics, including misogyny, male influencers like Andrew Tate, and the recent concerning developments in UK abortion rights. What emerges is a raw, unflinching look at how childhood experiences shape our adult relationships, why anonymity can be liberating, and how society's treatment of vulnerable people - from social workers to women seeking healthcare - reveals our collective blind spots.In This Episode00:02:45 - The birth of anonymity 00:04:40 - Why hiding can mean truth-telling 00:09:10 - When dads abandon and mothers struggle 00:15:15 - Forgiving the unforgivable 00:24:15 - From personal pain to professional purpose 00:28:40 - When systems fail the vulnerable 00:42:35 - Blackbox thinking 00:59:55 - Misogyny as cultural DNA 01:11:55 - The Andrew Tate problem 01:15:00 - When women turn on women 01:32:05 - Justice on trial 01:38:45 - Tracking women's bodies 01:47:15 - Healing through words 01:52:35 - Moving trauma through movementAbout LalaLala is a former social worker who spent over a decade in safeguarding, witnessing firsthand the realities of domestic abuse and child protection. She's now a best-selling author and one of the most important voices online when it comes to love, abuse, power and patriarchy. Operating anonymously through her platform "Lalalaletmeexplain," she helps people recognise red flags, establish boundaries, and understand their worth through truth and lived experience.

Andrew El-Khanagry's journey from anxious young associate to confident practitioner reveals the transformative power of purpose-driven dentistry. Five years out from dental school, this Egyptian-born dentist has navigated the challenges of perfecting his craft while building Mobile Smiles, a charity bringing dental care to underserved communities worldwide. Through candid conversations about clinical mistakes, the value of communication over technique, and finding balance between profit and purpose, Andrew shares insights that resonate with dentists at every stage of their careers. His story demonstrates how early setbacks can become catalysts for growth and why the best education sometimes comes from unexpected sources.In This Episode00:01:45 - Podcast listening habits 00:03:10 - Early life in Egypt and England 00:04:25 - Language barriers and adaptation 00:06:25 - Career influences and family guidance 00:08:00 - Dental school at Birmingham 00:09:45 - Academic challenges and friendships 00:11:30 - First job and PhD experience 00:13:50 - Staying versus moving practices 00:15:15 - Clinical anxiety and perfectionism 00:18:25 - Transition to private practice 00:20:25 - Communication skills training 00:25:00 - Patient relationships and continuity 00:33:20 - Mobile Smiles charity foundation 00:36:20 - International dental missions 00:43:10 - Cost-effectiveness of charity work 00:48:45 - UK-based charity initiatives 00:53:15 - Purpose versus profit in dentistry 00:54:30 - Instagram as dental education 00:56:40 - Career direction and specialisation 01:04:30 - Blackbox thinking 01:11:05 - Best educational experiences 01:21:00 - Trust-building in private practice 01:33:30 - Fantasy dinner party 01:43:50 - Last days and legacyAbout Andrew El-KhanagryAndrew El-Khanagry is a general restorative dentist with a focus on prosthodontics, five years qualified from Birmingham Dental School. Born in Egypt and raised in Burton-on-Trent, he's the founder of Mobile Smiles, a UK-based charity providing dental care in underserved communities across Egypt, Namibia, Nigeria, and South America.

Sonia Rajput shares her journey from being a self-described introvert from Birmingham to becoming a dentist at two of London's most prestigious dental practices. Throughout the conversation, she reveals how she balanced ambition with prioritising work-life balance, leveraging social media to advance her career despite her natural introversion. Sonia offers valuable insights into building a private dentistry career, discussing everything from clinical techniques to patient communication, while being refreshingly candid about her struggles, successes, and her approach to finding fulfilment both professionally and personally.In This Episode00:01:45 - Early career and self-perception 00:03:15 - Childhood and family background 00:05:00 - Choosing dentistry over medicine 00:06:25 - University experience at Birmingham 00:09:35 - Dental school challenges 00:10:15 - Professional ambition development 00:12:15 - First professional experiences 00:13:45 - Working at Scott Arms practice 00:18:00 - Aligning, bleaching and bonding focus 00:21:35 - Communication in private practice 00:23:30 - Landing prestigious jobs 00:29:30 - Social media marketing strategies 00:35:35 - Content creation process 00:42:55 - Current practice environments 00:56:45 - Blackbox thinking 01:07:05 - Facial aesthetics 01:11:45 - Career satisfaction and future plans 01:21:20 - Fantasy dinner partyAbout Sonia RajputSonia Rajput is a 29-year-old dentist who comes from a medical family but chose dentistry over her family's profession of medicine. Currently working with Mark Hughes in Beaconsfield and at London Smile Clinic with Tim Bradstock-Smith, she has a special interest in aesthetic dentistry and facial aesthetics. Despite describing herself as naturally introverted, Sonia has built a significant social media presence that has helped her secure positions at prestigious practices and develop her career.

Stina Sanders, a former dating app co-founder turned therapist and mental health advocate, joins Rhona and Payman for a raw conversation about love, trauma, and the difference between chaos and genuine connection. From selling her relationship-focused business Huggle to studying therapy after her own healing journey, Stina unpacks why we mistake dysfunction for passion, how trauma bonds keep us stuck, and whether AI can replace human connection in healing. This episode challenges everything you think you know about modern dating, attachment patterns, and what healthy love actually looks like.In This Episode00:02:05 - From PR to dating apps: Building Huggle 00:04:30 - Psychology calling: The moment everything clicked 00:07:50 - Abusive relationships: When love becomes survival 00:11:00 - The great love debate: Chaos versus calm 00:16:30 - Time and truth: Why masks slip eventually 00:18:30 - Training to heal: Mirror work in therapy school 00:21:15 - Spotting narcissists: What predators actually look for 00:25:15 - Social media narcissists: The new hunting ground 00:28:10 - Dating app fatigue: Endless options, empty connections 00:32:00 - High standards trap: When perfection becomes isolation 00:39:50 - Trauma bonds: The addiction to emotional rollercoasters 00:43:05 - ChatGPT therapy: Digital healing or dangerous replacement?00:48:00 - Modelling toxicity: Beauty industry's brutal reality 00:52:00 - Hormonal truth: PMDD and the medical gender gap 00:56:00 - Relationship detective: Every couple's unique puzzleAbout Stina SandersStina Sanders is a qualified therapist, mental health advocate, and former co-founder of dating app Huggle. After experiencing her own journey through abusive relationships and subsequent healing, she transitioned from the tech world to study therapy and is currently pursuing her master's degree. Stina regularly shares insights on emotional wellbeing, relationship patterns, and social media transparency through her platforms and is preparing to launch her own therapy clinic in Soho.