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Conversations with Dental Friends

Rachael

If you are in the dental industry and feel you have loads of potential and more to give, or maybe you’re new to the dental field, and if you like interesting stories from interesting people that might just inspire your dental future then this podcast is for you!

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  • 31 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 57 min
  • English

Episodes 31

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  • Thursday · 1 hr 7 min

    S6 Ep 12 : Can You Combine Your Greatest Passions? Where Dentistry Meets Sport w/ Dr Umair Mohammed

    Can one cold email change your career? Creating your own luck How can combining dentistry with something you already love create an entirely new career direction? In the series finale of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by Dr Umair Mohammed, a cosmetic and sports dentist, co-founder of the UK Sports Dentistry Association and co-host of The Sports Dentistry Podcast. In this episode, we cover: How one cold email introduced Umair to his mentor Combining a love of sport with a dental career Oral health, inflammation and athletic performance Digital scanning and providing care at training grounds Helping local sports teams as a route into the field Why sports dentistry is relevant to the entire dental team Building professional opportunities through networking Umair’s ambition for sports dentistry to become a recognised speciality Content note At approximately 38:42 to 41:43, Umair discusses his wife’s diagnosis of stage-three bowel cancer and how it changed his outlook on life, purpose and professional legacy. Sports dentistry organisations and education UK Sports Dentistry Association The professional organisation co-founded by Umair to support education, collaboration and the development of sports dentistry. UK Sports Dentistry Association membership Information about membership, education, networking and professional development. UCL Sports Dentistry MSc Information about UCL Eastman’s part-time Sports Dentistry: Oral Health in Sport programme. UCL Sports Dentistry short course A two-day introduction to sports dentistry and the evolving role of the sports dentist. Tackling Teeth online course An introductory programme covering athlete care, prevention, dental trauma and getting started in sports dentistry. The UK Sports Dentistry Association describes its community as including dentists, dental care professionals, researchers and wider healthcare professionals, reflecting Umair’s emphasis that this field is not only for dentists. sportsdentistryuk.com The Sports Dentistry Podcast Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Watch on YouTube Podcast website The podcast is hosted by Umair Mohammed and John Haughey and explores oral health, athletic performance and the development of sports dentistry around the world. podcasts.apple.com Further reading From pitchside to practice: lessons from sports dentistry A day in the life of a sports dentist What does a sports dentist do all day? Connect with Umair Umair’s website Umair on Instagram at @drumair Umair on LinkedIn Umair’s sports dentistry information Umair’s current professional profiles confirm his MSc in Sports Dentistry, his work with elite sport and his involvement in the UK Sports Dentistry Association. Edinburgh Cosmetic Dentist Continue the conversation Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram Rachael on Instagram at @homegirlhygienist Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Homegirl Hygienist Sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link”. This is the final episode of the series, so make sure you are following Conversations with Dental Friends to hear when the next series begins.

  • October 22 · 59 min

    S6 Ep 11 : What Does Balance Really Look Like? Yoga, Motherhood & Dentistry with Samantha Cawsey

    Can you do motherhood and dentistry your way? Yoga, balance and choosing your season What happens when the version of success you need begins to change? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by one of her closest friends, dental therapist and qualified yoga teacher Samantha Cawsey. Samantha explains how dentistry found her after she left school feeling uncertain about her direction. A dental nursing position introduced her to a profession that combined creativity, preparation, pressure and human connection. After completing further qualifications in dental radiography and oral health education, she went on to study dental therapy at Newcastle University, where she met Rachael. They reflect on university, learning to trust your abilities and making better use of the experts around you. Samantha also discusses the periodontal education that gave her greater confidence and a clearer structure for patient care. The conversation then moves beyond dentistry. Samantha shares why she travelled alone to Goa for yoga teacher training and how breathing, mindfulness and connection now influence the way she works with patients. At the heart of the episode is an honest discussion about motherhood and career identity. Samantha explains why she has chosen to pause professional progression, dedicate this season to her family and trust that dentistry will still be there when she is ready to return with greater energy. In this episode, we cover: Moving from dental nursing into dental therapy Studying together at Newcastle University Building confidence through postgraduate periodontal education Travelling to Goa for yoga teacher training Using breathing and mindfulness during a clinical day Choosing connection over simply completing a checklist Motherhood, identity and allowing your career to pause Content note Between approximately 38:34 and 42:59, the conversation briefly includes personal reflections on fertility pressure, adjusting to maternity leave, career identity and mental health. Samantha’s book recommendations Light on Yoga: The Definitive Guide to Yoga Practice by B.K.S. Iyengar A detailed guide to yoga practice, including postures, breathing and the principles behind the practice. Light on Life: The Yoga Journey to Wholeness, Inner Peace and Ultimate Freedom by B.K.S. Iyengar A reflective exploration of how yoga can influence our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual lives. Both titles and authors have been checked against the publisher and recognised Iyengar Yoga resources. harpercollins.co.uk Yoga teacher training Himalaya Yoga Valley The organisation Samantha trained with in Goa. Himalaya Yoga Valley teacher-training programmes Information about its current yoga teacher-training options in India, Ireland and online. Himalaya Yoga Valley currently offers 200-hour and 300-hour teacher-training pathways, although the structure may have changed since Samantha completed her course in January 2020. yogagoaindia.com Periodontal education mentioned Perio School The Perio Masterclass The Hygienist Course Diploma in Periodontics for Hygienists and Therapists RW Perio Dental therapy education Newcastle University Dental Therapy BSc Connect with Samantha Samantha Cawsey on LinkedIn Continue the conversation Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram Rachael on Instagram at @homegirlhygienist Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Homegirl Hygienist Sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link”. Follow the podcast and share this episode with a dental friend who may need permission to approach their career at a different pace.

  • October 15 · 48 min

    S6 Ep 10 : How Do You Build a Dental Career You Love? Finding You Niche with Dr Ian Dunn

    How do you find your thing in dentistry? Perio, purpose and patience How do you build a fulfilling dental career when you do not yet know which direction you want to take? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by specialist periodontist, educator and speaker Dr Ian Dunn. Ian explains why he originally planned to study engineering and how one short careers talk completely changed his direction. After qualifying from Leeds, he spent eight years working as an NHS general dentist before an unexpected teaching opportunity introduced him to periodontology. What initially seemed like a route into another area of dental education gradually became Ian’s professional passion. A four-day periodontal course brought his academic and clinical knowledge together, transformed the results he was achieving and encouraged him to pursue further training. Ian also shares what he learned from teaching alongside Phil Ower, why educators should remain connected to clinical practice and why the purpose of a course should be to empower the audience rather than showcase the speaker. The conversation explores behaviour change, the relationship between periodontitis and wider health, the growing influence of artificial intelligence and the importance of remembering the person behind every periodontal chart. Ian finishes with reassuring career advice for anyone feeling lost, pressured or unhappy. You do not need to specialise to prove your value, and you do not need to build your career at somebody else’s pace. In this episode, we cover: How an engineering careers day led Ian towards dentistry Moving from general practice into periodontology and education The four-day course that transformed Ian’s clinical approach Why great educators empower rather than impress Behaviour change and the psychology of periodontal treatment AI, clinical data and the increasingly informed patient The contribution of hygienists and therapists to periodontal care Comparison, career pressure and finding work you enjoy Why dentistry still needs excellent generalists Accepting temporary discomfort when a job or environment needs to change Links and resources Ian Dunn on Instagram Ian’s Perio Courses profile Perio Courses British Society of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry BSP Patient Forum The Sound of Periodontitis BSP patient resources The BSP Patient Forum contributes the patient perspective to periodontal information and resources, while The Sound of Periodontitis shares the human experience of the disease through patients’ stories. bsperio.org.uk Ian’s current professional profile confirms his continued involvement in clinical periodontology and postgraduate dental education. periocourses.co.uk Continue the conversation Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Follow Rachael at @homegirlhygienist Homegirl Hygienist Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like a copy of Rachael’s free Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link”. A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for supporting Conversations with Dental Friends.

  • October 8 · 48 min

    S6 Ep 9 : Can Belief Change Your Career? Confidence, Icon & Education with Dr Kiran Shankla

    Can one mentor transform your career? Confidence, Icon and education What difference can one supportive person make to the direction of your career? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by Dr Kiran Shankla, a restorative and cosmetic dentist based in Reading. Kiran explains why dentistry was never originally part of her plan and how a conversation with a family friend encouraged her to completely rethink her A-level choices. She went on to study dentistry at the University of Birmingham, work in Australia and complete a four-year part-time master’s in restorative dentistry at UCL Eastman. One of the most powerful parts of Kiran’s story is the influence of mentorship. She shares how a supportive practice principal offered honest feedback, encouraged her development and helped her recognise the quality of her own clinical work. The conversation also explores Kiran’s experience with Icon resin infiltration. She discusses the young patient whose successful treatment transformed her understanding of what the procedure could achieve and explains how her growing clinical experience eventually led to opportunities with DMG and dental education. Kiran offers practical advice on selecting early cases, setting realistic expectations, protecting the soft tissues and booking enough time. She also shares an honest perspective on working abroad, brand partnerships, lecturing and deciding whether practice ownership is truly the right goal for you. In this episode, we cover: ​Choosing dentistry after originally planning a completely different career ​Moving to Australia and the realities of working abroad ​Completing a restorative master’s while continuing to work ​How supportive mentorship can build clinical confidence ​Using Icon resin infiltration for white spots and fluorosis ​Preparing properly for education and brand opportunities ​Defining success without feeling pressured into practice ownership Kiran’s Icon advice Kiran recommends beginning with simpler white spot cases and patients who understand that every outcome is individual. Setting expectations is particularly important while you are developing your confidence. Her preference is to use rubber dam isolation where possible. When this is not suitable, she recommends using an appropriate liquid dam to protect the soft tissues from the hydrochloric acid etchant. Kiran’s biggest practical message is to book more time than you think you will need. Some lesions require additional etching cycles, and rushing may mean stopping shortly before achieving the desired result. Links and resources mentioned ​Learn about DMG Icon infiltration ​Icon Vestibular for white spots, fluorosis and enamel opacities ​DMG UK ​Kiran’s published Icon case Course dates change, so contact DMG directly or follow Kiran for current Icon education and training information. https://uk.dmg-dental.com/education-and-events/education/detail/default-fc015d38b141caeb8cab84a86fcfe102-1 Connect with Kiran ​Follow Dr Kiran Shankla at @shanklasmiles Continue the conversation ​Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram ​Rachael at @homegirlhygienist ​Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack ​Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube ​Listen on Spotify ​Listen on Apple Podcasts ​Homegirl Hygienist Sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like Rachael’s free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link” and she will send it to you. Follow the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and share this episode with a dental friend who would enjoy Kiran’s story.

  • October 1 · 56 min

    S6 Ep 8 : Are Dental Therapists Overlooking Paediatrics? Building Confidence with Bradley Wilson

    Could paediatric dentistry unlock your full scope? Confidence, care and career growth What if a successful paediatric appointment does not end with completed treatment, but with a child feeling slightly safer than they did before? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by dental therapist Bradley Wilson. Bradley’s career began with musical theatre, dance and performing as Billy Elliot in London’s West End. He explains how the discipline, professionalism and communication skills developed during that chapter of his life later transferred into dentistry. After returning home, Bradley left his A-level studies and trained as a dental nurse. Working alongside a dental therapist introduced him to a profession he had not previously known existed, inspiring him to complete an access diploma and study dental therapy in Sheffield. Bradley now works across a broad dental therapy scope, including periodontal care, examinations, restorative dentistry and paediatric treatment. He shares how treating children has strengthened his diagnostic skills, communication and confidence as a clinician. The conversation explores why paediatric treatment must be adapted to the individual child, how parents’ anxieties can influence an appointment and why clinicians should recognise small steps as genuine progress. Bradley also introduces Perfecting Paediatrics, his practical course designed to help dental therapists develop their confidence, clinical protocols and professional support network. In this episode Moving from the West End and musical theatre into dentistry Qualifying as a dental nurse before studying dental therapy Graduating during the pandemic and beginning clinical work in PPE Creating a varied, full-scope dental therapy role Building confidence in paediatric treatment and direct access Managing anxious children and working constructively with parents Using policies and protocols to develop effective skill mix Creating supportive education for dental therapists Silver diamine fluoride, fissure sealants and the stamp technique Why progress can matter more than completing treatment Links and resources mentioned Perfecting Paediatrics: Bradley’s practical paediatric dentistry course for dental therapists and dentists Upcoming BW Dental Therapy courses: Current course dates and registration information Bradley Wilson on Eventbrite: Bradley’s organiser page and available tickets BW Dental Therapy: Clinical education, course information and updates Delivering Better Oral Health: Evidence-based preventive guidance referenced during the conversation Connect with Bradley @bradsdentaljournal BW Dental Therapy Continue the conversation @conversationswithdentalfriends @homegirlhygienist Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Homegirl Hygienist Sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for sponsoring Conversations with Dental Friends. Free career planning workbook If you would like the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link” and Rachael will send it to you. Follow the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and share this episode with a dental friend or practice team who would love to explore more paediatric dental therapy.

  • September 24 · 1 hr 18 min

    S6 Ep 7 : What Makes a Great Dental Career? Opportunity Support & Learnings with Dr Nicola Gore

    Can saying yes shape an extraordinary career? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by Dr Nicola Gore, a restorative dentist, practice owner, educator, author and Vice President of the College of General Dentistry. In this episode, we cover: Growing up between England and Iran and nearly leaving dental school Accepting a last-minute foundation training position Working in restorative and maxillofacial hospital departments Learning from community dentistry in Australia Combining postgraduate education, practice ownership and motherhood Investing in communication, photography and careful documentation Learning to walk before attempting advanced dentistry Why removable prosthodontics can transform a patient’s life Teaching and supporting 26 foundation dentists Writing Dentistry in a Nutshell Leadership within the College of General Dentistry Supporting dental therapists and the wider dental team Content note This episode contains brief references to suicide-related trauma, bereavement and distressing cases encountered within hospital dentistry. The supplied transcript contains only an opening timestamp, so a precise time for this section is not available. Nicola’s advice for early-career clinicians Nicola encourages new clinicians to invest in good loupes and a reliable camera, photograph their work with appropriate consent and begin building a portfolio from the earliest stages of their careers. Her central message is to learn to walk before trying to run. Strong cosmetic or restorative dentistry still depends on communication, trust, documentation, isolation and sound clinical fundamentals. Nicola also stresses the importance of being honest about limitations and possible complications. Patients cannot make an informed decision unless they understand both what treatment may achieve and what could go wrong. Dentistry in a Nutshell discount code Nicola co-authored Dentistry in a Nutshell with Dr Raabiha N Maan. The book uses practical tables and flowcharts to support dental students, clinicians, dental therapists, dental nurses, professionals returning to practice and candidates preparing for overseas registration examinations. You can use the discount code NEC when ordering Dentistry in a Nutshell. The code is available until 30 September 2026. Order Dentistry in a Nutshell Dentistry in a Nutshell on Google Books Links and resources mentioned College of General Dentistry Totteridge Dental Studio The Impression Club Rupert Monkhouse on Instagram Continue the conversation Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram Rachael at @homegirlhygienist Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Homegirl Hygienist Sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like Rachael’s free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook, comment or message the word “link” and she will send it to you. Follow the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and share this episode with a dental friend who would enjoy Nicola’s story.

  • September 17 · 46 min

    S6 Ep 6 : Can Better Health Make You Better at Business? Performance From Within with George Vernon

    Can success cost you your health? High performance without burnout What if looking after your health was not separate from building a successful dental career, but one of the most important parts of it? In this episode, Rachael is joined by George Vernon, a health and performance coach who works with dental professionals, practice owners, business leaders and other ambitious professionals. George shares how his early dream of becoming a boxing champion led him into sports science, strength and conditioning, athlete coaching and, eventually, the world of dentistry. His experience of pushing his own training to the point of burnout shaped his evidence-based approach to psychology, nutrition and physical health. Together, Rachael and George explore why dental professionals often place themselves at the bottom of their priority lists, how small improvements can protect energy and extend a career, and why the right kind of coaching can reduce years of trial and error. They also discuss building an authentic professional presence on LinkedIn, finding a niche through meaningful work and redefining success around the values that matter most to you. In this episode George’s journey from competitive boxing to health and performance coaching What dental professionals can learn from elite athletes Protecting your physical health and energy in a demanding profession Why putting yourself first can benefit your patients, team and family How coaching helps turn complicated goals into manageable actions Building a personal brand and finding opportunities through LinkedIn Choosing values, meaning and sustainable wellbeing over endless achievement How small, consistent changes can produce very different long-term results Links and resources mentioned George Vernon’s website George’s free Health Phase Assessment Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl Atomic Habits by James Clear Rachael’s conversation with Dr Alan Clarke on Apple Podcasts Connect with George George Vernon on Instagram George Vernon on LinkedIn George Vernon: Health & Performance on YouTube Continue the conversation Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram Rachael on Instagram at @homegirlhygienist Conversations with Dental Friends on Substack Conversations with Dental Friends on YouTube Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple Podcasts Visit the Conversations with Dental Friends website With thanks to our sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for sponsoring this episode and supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Visit Oral-B UK ​Mynsk.co.uk If this conversation made you think differently about health, success or the way you are building your career, please share it with a dental friend. You can also receive the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook by commenting the word link on the episode.

  • September 10 · 57 min

    S6 Ep 5 : How Can Dental Therapists Create More Opportunities? Using Your Full Scope with Imogen Fox

    Could saying yes transform your dental career? From safe beginner to paediatric leader What if the next step in your career is not part of a carefully mapped-out five-year plan, but simply an opportunity you are curious enough to say yes to? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by award-winning dental hygienist and therapist Imogen Fox, whose incredibly varied career has taken her through foundation training, head and neck cancer care, special care dentistry, education, private practice and paediatric dentistry. Imogen shares why becoming a “safe beginner” is the real goal when we qualify and how the right mentorship helped her build confidence in her full dental therapy scope. We also discuss why you do not need to feel completely ready before accepting an opportunity and how some of Imogen’s biggest career developments began with a leap of faith. The conversation explores Imogen’s formative work as one of the UK’s first Macmillan dental therapists, what treating head and neck cancer patients taught her about compassionate empathy and the importance of knowing when to ask for help. We also look at the huge opportunity for dental therapists within paediatric dentistry. Imogen explains how therapists can lead children’s examinations, prevention and restorative care, while sharing practical advice for creating a positive experience for young patients. This is a wonderfully reassuring conversation about staying curious, building confidence, exploring your scope and creating a dental career that can evolve alongside the different seasons of your life. In this episode Why foundation training and supportive mentorship can transform early clinical confidence Becoming comfortable with being a safe beginner Saying yes before you feel completely ready Building a varied career across oncology, special care, education and private practice What head and neck cancer care taught Imogen about compassionate empathy The opportunities available to dental therapists within paediatric dentistry Imogen’s three practical principles for treating children Creating a career that supports both professional fulfilment and family life Links and resources mentioned Imogen’s professional profile and dental articles Head and Neck Cancer Care in the General Practice Setting, Imogen’s on-demand educational webinar Progress and Headwinds for Dental Therapists, Imogen’s article on the future of dental therapy and paediatric care Dentaid’s Uganda volunteering programme, for dental professionals interested in overseas volunteering NSK Ikigai, where Imogen is an opinion leader and educator Connect with Imogen Connect with Imogen Fox on LinkedIn Read more about Imogen’s clinical work at Refresh Dental Continue the conversation Follow Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram: @conversationswithdentalfriends Follow Rachael on Instagram: @homegirlhygienist Visit the Homegirl Hygienist website A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for sponsoring this episode and supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. If this conversation encouraged you to explore more of your scope or say yes to a new opportunity, share it with a dental friend who might need that reminder too. You can also download the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook by commenting the word link on the episode, and I’ll send it directly to you. Imogen Instagram @dental.hygienist.uk

  • September 3 · 54 min

    S6 Ep 4 : Could Dentistry Prepare You For Business? From Clinician to Founder with Dr Ariba Karim

    Could dentistry prepare you for business? From clinician to founder What happens when the career you worked so hard for no longer feels like the right fit? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by dentist, facial aesthetics practitioner and founder of Whip Belfast, Dr Ariba Karim. Ariba shares the honest story behind her journey from dentistry into hospitality and entrepreneurship. We talk about cultural expectations, choosing dentistry, navigating difficult working environments and the realities of building a career as a self-employed dental professional. After working across Northern Ireland and Dublin, Ariba began to recognise that her mental health was being affected by a career she no longer felt passionate about. Through therapy, travel and plenty of self-reflection, she uncovered a long-suppressed ambition to build something of her own. That idea became Whip Belfast, a personality-filled concept café known for its açaí bowls, matcha, creative menus and distinctly “girly pop” energy. This is a wonderfully honest conversation about career pivots, transferable skills, financial risk, resilience and what can happen when you allow yourself to pursue the work that genuinely lights you up. In this episode Why Ariba chose dentistry and what her early career really looked like The realities of NHS dentistry, self-employment and associate life Recognising when a working environment is not right for you Investing in further training and exploring different niches Mental health, therapy and losing passion for your profession Starting a business, experiencing financial risk and rebuilding after setbacks The skills dentistry gave Ariba that now help her run Whip Building a memorable brand through creativity, social media and community Ariba’s plans to grow Whip while protecting the quality of its original Belfast location Links and resources mentioned Study Dentistry at Queen’s University Belfast Start With Why by Simon Sinek Watch Simon Sinek’s TED Talk, How Great Leaders Inspire Action Derma Medical, where Ariba completed facial aesthetics training Connect with Ariba and Whip Belfast Follow @whipbelfast on Instagram Follow @whipbelfast on TikTok Visit Whip on the Lisburn Road in Belfast Continue the conversation Follow Conversations with Dental Friends on Instagram: @conversationswithdentalfriends Follow Rachael on Instagram: @homegirlhygienist Visit the Homegirl Hygienist website A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for sponsoring this episode and supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. If this conversation made you think differently about your own career, share it with a dental friend who might need to hear it. You can also download the free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook by commenting the word link on the episode, and I’ll send it directly to you.

  • August 27 · 1 hr 6 min

    S6 Ep 3 : Could Better Boundaries Help Protect Your Dental Career? Preventing Burnout with Dr Rana

    What if the answer to burnout isn’t simply doing less, but learning how to live, work and succeed in a completely different way? In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, Rachael is joined by specialist periodontist, author, coach, international speaker and fellow podcaster Dr Rana Al-Falaki. Rana was the first periodontist in the UK to begin using lasers in daily practice and has developed minimally invasive periodontal protocols that are now informing clinical trials around the world. Alongside her clinical and educational work, she is the creator of the NAIL-IT Leadership System, which helps professionals pursue sustainable success without sacrificing their health, happiness or relationships. Behind Rana’s extraordinary career is an incredibly honest story of burnout. She shares what happened when years of overachievement, emotional trauma, professional pressure and never asking for help finally caught up with her. Content note This episode contains a personal discussion of childhood trauma and sexual abuse. This begins at approximately 26 minutes and 15 seconds within the original interview. Please be aware that the precise timestamp may move slightly following the addition of the episode introduction and sponsorship messages. Please look after yourself while listening and feel completely free to pause or skip this part of the conversation. Find out more about Dr Rana Al-Falaki Dr Rana’s official website: https://www.drranaalfalaki.com/ Follow Dr Rana on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drranaalfalaki/ Discover NAIL-IT Leadership and Rana’s coaching, workshops and services: https://www.drranaalfalaki.com/nail-it Find out more about NAIL-IT Leadership: Your Blueprint to Optimal Performance: https://www.drranaalfalaki.com/nail-it-leadership Listen to the NAIL-IT Podcast with Dr Rana Al-Falaki and Dr Bhavin Patel: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/nail-it/id1824975541 Follow the NAIL-IT Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailit_podcast/ NAIL-IT events and education Find out more about the NAIL-IT Leadership Experience and upcoming 2026 dates: https://www.nailitindentistry.com/nail-it-in-dentistry-leadership-wellbeing-day-dental-team-professionals Find out more about Rana’s periodontal and peri-implant courses: https://www.nailitindentistry.com/perio-courses Find out more about the periodontal and peri-implant masterclass taking place in London on 20 and 21 November 2026: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYeIAZNmhry/ Thank you to our sponsors A huge thank you to Oral-B and NSK for sponsoring this episode and supporting Conversations with Dental Friends. Find out more about Oral-B Professional: https://www.oralbprofessional.co.uk/s/ Find out more about NSK UK: https://mynsk.co.uk/ Stay connected with Conversations with Dental Friends Follow the podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conversationswithdentalfriends/ Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@homegirlhygienist2756?si=IfQgFNVLAMZu1rcL https://substack.com/@conversationswithdentalfriends?r=57fuak&utm_medium=ios Join us on Substack: Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0TR0CyMSp9K3JHIg8eg9nQ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/conversations-with-dental-friends/id1802284203 Free Career Planning Workbook If you would like some space to reflect on what you want from your own dental career, comment the word LINK on the episode post and I’ll send you my free Conversations with Dental Friends Career Planning Workbook. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a rating or review and share it with a dental friend who may need to hear this conversation.

  • August 20 · 55 min

    S6 Ep : 2 Can Social Media Completely Change Your Dental Career? with Anna Peterson

    From making blue-tack braces 🦷😂 to becoming a dental therapist, educator, content creator for 245k+ people, and working with some of the biggest brands in dentistry… Anna Peterson’s journey is a powerful reminder that you don’t always know where one decision will take you. In this episode, we talk about career pivots, confidence, social media, and what it really looks like behind the polished dental Instagram world. Anna shares how she didn’t get the A level grades she needed for dentistry, and how she only discovered dental therapy after that door closed. From there, she stepped into a role in restorative dentistry, learned new clinical skills years into practice, and eventually found her way into content creation and education online. We also dive into the moment everything changed online, when her first viral video almost got deleted at just 10 views… before unexpectedly reaching nearly one million views in under 24 hours. Since then, social media has opened doors she never expected, including collaborations with Oral-B and NSK, lecturing opportunities, presenting, and educating thousands of people about oral health. But beyond the viral moments, this conversation is really about something deeper. 💡 Key themes we cover: Not getting the grades you expected — and what comes next Discovering dental therapy and building confidence clinically Learning new skills later in your career (yes, even rubber dam!) The reality of going viral on social media Building a personal brand in dentistry Working with major dental brands like Oral-B and NSK The pressure vs reality of dental social media Why you don’t need to have everything figured out The importance of kindness in dentistry 🧠 Anna’s biggest reminder: You are allowed to ask questions. You are allowed to not know everything. You are allowed to build confidence slowly. And you absolutely do not have to follow a traditional route. Because behind every perfect composite, viral video, and polished Instagram feed… there’s a human being figuring it out too. And as Anna beautifully puts it: “We’re all in it together.” 🫶🏼 ⸻ 🔗 Links & Resources 👩‍⚕️ Follow Anna Peterson: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annapetersondental?igsh=MWhyNWk5ZHYycXY2eQ==&igsi=MWhyNWk5ZHYycXY2eQ== 📱 Conversations with Dental Friends: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conversationswithdentalfriends?igsh=bTh4ZWRlank3dWJs 💙 Sponsored by Oral-B Explore Oral-B professional products & resources: 👉 https://www.oralbprofessional.co.uk/s/login/ 🦷 Sponsored by NSK Discover NSK dental equipment & solutions: 👉 https://mynsk.co.uk ⸻ ✨ In this episode, we also mention: Rubber dam training and clinical confidence Dental photography and content creation Career progression in dental therapy Social media growth and unexpected virality Education, lecturing, and presenting in dentistry

  • August 13 · 1 hr 16 min

    S6 Ep 1 : Are You Seeing the Patient or Just the Tooth? Find Your Focus with Dr Ambrish Roshan

    In this episode of Conversations with Dental Friends, I’m joined by Dr Ambrish Roshan, dentist, educator and dental photography enthusiast, for a conversation about finding your direction in dentistry, building a career around the things you genuinely enjoy and why photography can completely change the way you practise. Ambrish shares the story of moving from Singapore to Ireland to study dentistry, the challenges he faced as an international graduate trying to enter the Irish workforce, and how taking a leap of faith has shaped his career. We talk about: 📸 Why dental photography is so much more than before-and-after photos Ambrish explains how documenting each stage of treatment has become one of his most valuable learning and reflection tools, allowing him to identify where things went wrong and continually improve his clinical work. 🦷 Treating the patient, not just the tooth From his early training in implant dentistry to his current restorative work, Ambrish talks about the importance of looking at the patient as a whole and understanding what they actually value when planning treatment. 💬 Putting the patient in the driving seat We discuss listening to patients, understanding their priorities and balancing the three big costs of treatment: time, biology and money. Ambrish shares how he approaches consultations and why understanding a patient’s values can completely change treatment planning. 📷 Creating a simple photography workflow Ambrish talks us through his approach to photographing new patients, including his baseline photographic records, how he uses photography to communicate with patients and why he believes taking 15–20 photographs doesn’t need to take more than two minutes once you have a system. 🎓 Investing in yourself and learning through reflection We talk about his postgraduate training, the photography course that changed his approach and why sometimes the biggest learning comes from reviewing your own work rather than simply completing another course. 📱 Social media, photography & attracting the dentistry you want to do Ambrish shares how posting his clinical photography organically led to patients finding him and explains why showcasing the work you want to do can be such a powerful marketing tool. 🤝 Working with dental brands We also chat about becoming a KOL, choosing brands that align with your values and why authenticity and genuinely using the products you talk about are so important when building trust with your audience. And, of course, we talk about what’s next for Ambrish, including his plans for composite and photography education and some exciting projects coming later in 2026. 🔗 Find Ambrish Instagram: @dr.ambrish.roshan Courses / education: EduDental.ie DON’T FORGET ADD RACHAEL10 AT CHECKOUT FOR 10% OFF 💡 Mentioned in this episode Focus Photography Course – Minesh Patel Michael Crilly Michael Crilly episode Ivoclar DMG / Icon Invisalign If you would like to sign up for Oral-B iO testdrive click here To Sell Is Human – Daniel H. Pink Don’t forget Ambrish has very kindly offered a 10% discount off his upcoming photography course with the code RACHAEL10 Click the course link and add the discount code here ⸻ 🦷 This episode is proudly supported by Oral-B 🦷 This episode is also supported by NSK

  • July 9 · 37 min

    S5 Ep 12 : What Happens When You Advocate from Inside Corporate Dentistry? with Caitlin Miller

    SEASON FINALE 🎙️✨ I genuinely cannot believe we’re already at the final episode of Season 5 of Conversations With Dental Friends 🥹🤍 I’m joined by the brilliant Caitlin Miller, Dental Therapist and Head of Dental Hygiene and Therapy at Bupa Dental Care 👏 This conversation felt SO important because we spoke honestly about what it’s really like working within corporate dentistry, the future of dental hygiene and therapy, and how we can better support clinicians in a profession that can sometimes feel incredibly isolating 💭 from starting out as a dental nurse and finding her place within hygiene and therapy, to now leading national initiatives within Bupa, Caitlin’s journey is such a reminder that careers in dentistry can evolve in ways you never expect ✨ in this episode we chat about: ✨ the realities of working within corporate dentistry ✨ support systems and clinician wellbeing ✨ career progression beyond the surgery ✨ the future of dental therapy within the UK ✨ building community for hygienists and therapists What I loved most about this conversation is how much passion Caitlin has for making hygienists and therapists feel heard, valued and supported 🫶🏼 🎧 listen now wherever you get your podcasts I also just want to say the biggest THANK YOU to everyone who has supported this season of Conversations With Dental Friends 🤍 whether you’ve listened to one episode or every single one, shared the podcast, messaged me after an episode or supported from behind the scenes… thank you so much 🫶🏼 And a huge thank you as well to our sponsors @siobhan_education and @lighthouse_dental_company_ire for supporting this season of the podcast ✨ After this episode we’ll be taking a short summer break ☀️ there are so many exciting things coming for the next season already and I genuinely can’t wait 💫 To find out more about dental hygienist and dental therapist scope of practice click here To find out more about a career in bupa click here To find out more about Siobhan education click here To find out more about light house dental company click here

  • July 1 · 1 hr 7 min

    S5 Ep 11: What Happens When You Fall Into a Career You End Up Loving? with Stacey Sagar

    New episode of Conversations With Dental Friends is live 🎙️✨ This week I’m joined by the lovely Stacey Saagar and honestly… this conversation felt like such an important reminder that careers in dentistry are allowed to evolve alongside you 🤍 We spoke so openly about confidence, growth, balancing career ambitions with real life, and navigating the pressures that can sometimes come with working in dentistry 💭 From her journey into dental nursing, to education, mentorship and creating a career that aligns with both professional goals and personal priorities, @staceysagar.dental shares so much honesty and perspective throughout this episode 👏🏼 In this episode we chat about: ✨ building confidence within dentistry ✨ balancing family life and career growth ✨ imposter syndrome and self doubt ✨ moving into education and mentorship ✨ creating opportunities beyond clinical practice in the business side of dentistry ✨ the importance of community within dentistry ✨ professional identity and career progression ✨ why your career doesn’t need to look linear to be successful what I loved most about this conversation is how relatable it felt 🫶🏼 🎧 listen now wherever you get your podcasts if you’re currently navigating career uncertainty, trying to build confidence or figuring out what you actually want from your future in dentistry, I really think this episode will resonate 💫 Thankyou so much to @siobhaneducation and @lighthousedentalcompany for sponsoring this episode And as always, if you’d like my free Dental Career Planning Workbook, DM me the word LINK 📚✨ You can find out more about your scope of practice as a dental nurse here You can find out how to become a dental nurse here You can find out more about Stacey’s course here You can find out more about lighthouse dental company here You can find out more about Siobhan’s amazing courses here Don’t forget to follow Stacey on Instagram stacey.sagar_dental You can follow the podcast @conversationswithdentalfriends and I’m over there too @homegirlhygienist See you next week for the series finale of Conversations with Dental Friends 🎧🎙️💗

  • June 25 · 1 hr 9 min

    S5 Ep 10 : What Does Female Ownership in Dentistry Really Take? With Dr Raabiha Maan

    New episode of Conversations With Dental Friends is live 🎙️✨ This week I’m joined by the amazing Raahbia Maan and honestly… this conversation felt SO honest, motivating and refreshing 🤍 We spoke about what it really looks like to build confidence in your career while navigating the pressures of dentistry, social media, personal growth and figuring out who you are both inside and outside of the clinic 💭 From her journey into dentistry, to building her online presence, stepping into education and creating opportunities for herself beyond traditional clinical work… @drraabhia story is such a reminder that you don’t have to limit yourself to one version of success 👏 TW we do chat about fertility and miscarriage in the episode so if you’d rather not listen the timestamp for this part of the conversation is in the intro in this episode we chat about: ✨ building confidence as a dental professional ✨ social media and personal branding in dentistry ✨ imposter syndrome and comparison culture ✨ creating opportunities outside of clinical practice ✨ education, mentorship and career growth ✨ balancing ambition with authenticity ✨ finding your people within the profession and @thedentalmumsnetwork What I loved most about this conversation is how openly we spoke about confidence and self belief 🫶🏼 because I think so many people in dentistry are quietly questioning themselves while simultaneously trying to hold everything together professionally, especially as a mum or a female practice owner in dentistry. And hearing someone else be honest about that can feel really reassuring 🤍 Thanks so much to Siobhan Kelleher Education and Lighthouse Dental Company for sponsoring this episode 🎧 listen now wherever you get your podcasts If you’re currently navigating career uncertainty, trying to build confidence, thinking about putting yourself out there online, or figuring out what you want from your future in dentistry, I really think this episode will resonate 💫 and as always, if you’d like my free Dental Career Planning Workbook, DM me the word LINK 📚✨ You can find out more about dental mums network here Find out more about Dr Raabiha’s practice here To find out more about Dentistry in a Nutshell including the new book here You can listen to Raabiha’s Dental Women’s Podcast here To find out more about Siobhan Kelleher education click here To find out more about lighthouse dental company here You can see Dr Raabiha’s instagram here See you next week for another Conversation with Dental Friends

  • June 18 · 47 min

    S5 Ep 9 : What Does It Take to Train the Next Generation of Dental Therapists with Ibby Numan

    New episode of Conversations With Dental Friends is live 🎙️✨ This week I’m joined by the brilliant Ibby Numan and honestly… this conversation felt like such an important one for anyone navigating their career in dentistry 🤍 From starting out as a Dental Nurse at the Eastman, to training as a Dental Therapist during Covid, moving into education, working with BADT and helping therapists build confidence through @restore… Ibby’s story is such a reminder that careers don’t need to be linear to be meaningful 👏 in this episode we chat about: ✨ finding your path in dentistry even when you don’t have it all figured out ✨ the reality of training as a dental therapist ✨ confidence, manual dexterity and overcoming self doubt ✨ the pressure of social media in dentistry ✨ communication skills and why they matter more than perfect composites ✨ the loneliness that can come with working in practice ✨ the importance of community through organisations like BADT ✨ moving into education and giving back to the next generation ✨ balancing ambition, career growth and family life What I loved most about this conversation is how honest it was 💭 We spoke about the highs, the difficult days, imposter syndrome, evolving as a clinician and the fact that nobody picks up a handpiece and becomes incredible overnight. There’s so much power in just keeping going 🫶🏼 and hearing Ibby talk about returning to the Eastman as a tutor after starting there as a student dental nurse genuinely felt like such a full circle moment 🥹 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts If you’re a dental therapist, student therapist or someone feeling a bit stuck in your career right now, I really think this episode will resonate with you 🤍 As always, if you’d like my free Dental Career Planning Workbook, DM me the word LINK 📚✨ everything we discussed including BADT, Restore and education pathways will be linked in the show notes 💫 Huge thankyou to Siobhan Kelleher Education and Lighthouse Dental Company for sponsoring this episode To find out more about dental therapy scope click here Find out more about Eastman Dental School here Find out more about BADT here Find out more about BSDHT here Find out more about restore course here Find out more about Siobhan Kelleher Education here Find out more about Lighthouse Dental Company here See you back here next week with another Conversation with Dental Friends

  • June 11 · 48 min

    S5 Ep 8 : What Does Progress in Dental Hygiene Really Look Like? Sustainable Future - Tracy Doole

    new episode of Conversations With Dental Friends is live 🎙️✨ this week I’m joined by Tracy Doole and honestly… this conversation is such a good reminder that your career doesn’t have to fit into one box 🤍 from starting out in business and temp jobs before finding dentistry through dental nursing, to becoming a dental hygienist, educator, sustainability advocate, BSDHT executive member and clinical educator… @theecohygienist has built a career rooted in curiosity, growth and genuine passion for the profession 👏 in this episode we chat about: ✨ finding your path in dentistry later than expected ✨ the reality of graduating and going straight into practice ✨ perio, implant maintenance and creating better patient outcomes ✨ investing in courses, networking and lifelong learning ✨ building confidence as a clinician ✨ sustainability in dentistry and reducing healthcare waste ✨ mentorship, education and public health ✨ getting involved with BSDHT and professional advocacy ✨ balancing clinical work with opportunities beyond the surgery what I loved most about this conversation is how passionate Tracy is about pushing the profession forward while still staying grounded in patient care 💭 we also spoke about how isolating dental hygiene and therapy can sometimes feel and why community, networking and surrounding yourself with people who inspire you is so important 🫶 Thanks so much to Siobhan Kelleher Education and Lighthouse Dental Company for sponsoring this episode 🎧 listen now wherever you get your podcasts and as always, if you’d like my free Dental Career Planning Workbook, DM me the word LINK 📚✨ You can find out more about dental hygiene and dental therapy here Find out more about studying to be a dental nurse here Find out more about smile academy coaching and mentoring here Find out more about BSDHT here Find out more about NSK Ikigai here Find out more about young innovations here Find out more about Siobhan Kelleher Education with Tracy is an educator here Find out more about lighthouse dental company here See you next week for another conversation with dental friends

  • June 4 · 39 min

    S5 Ep 7 : What Does It Mean to Truly Champion Dental Hygiene? Advocacy & impact with Elaine Tilling

    New episode of Conversations With Dental Friends is live 🎙️✨ This week I’m joined by the incredible Elaine Tilling, someone who has spent decades shaping the dental profession through education, advocacy, public health work and mentorship 🤍 From joining the Royal Air Force at 17, to becoming a dental hygienist, educator, speaker and passionate advocate for oral health, Elaine’s career journey is honestly such a reminder that there is no one “right” path in dentistry 👏🏼 In this episode we chat about: ✨ building a long and meaningful career in dentistry ✨ moving into education and presenting ✨ mentorship and uplifting others in the profession ✨ smoking cessation, vaping and public health ✨ working with brands while maintaining integrity ✨ the importance of community and professional bodies like BSDHT ✨ finding purpose in your career beyond the clinic What I loved most about this conversation is how deeply Elaine believes in giving back and creating opportunities for the next generation of dental professionals 🫶🏼 It’s one of those episodes that leaves you feeling inspired, grounded and reminded why our profession matters so much 💭 🎧 listen now wherever you get your podcasts And if you’re currently thinking about your next step in dentistry, whether that’s education, diversification, content creation or just figuring out what you actually want from your career, DM me the word LINK for my free Dental Career Planning Workbook 📚✨ I’ll also link my Substack and everything we discussed in the show notes 🤍 Huge Thankyou to Siobhan Kelleher Education and Lighthouse Dental Company for sponsoring this episode You can find more about the scope of Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy here You can find out more about careers in the RAF here You can find out more about Tepe here You can find out more about BSDHT here You can find out more about Siobhan Kelleher Education where Elaine also lectures here You can find out more about Lighthouse Dental Company here See you next week for another Conversation with Dental Friends 🎧

  • May 28 · 57 min

    S5 Ep 6 : Are You Curious About the Industry Side of Dentistry? With Alan McCartney

    Another week, another conversation 🎙️✨ and this one brings a different perspective on building a career in dentistry 💭 This week I’m joined by Alan McCartney a name many of you will recognise through his work with global dental brands 🌍🦷 We’re diving into what it really looks like to step beyond the clinic and into the business side of dentistry and how to build a career that evolves with you 🤍 In this episode we get into: ✨ getting started in representing a dental company ✨ building confidence in education & speaking with credibility ✨ creating a reputation people trust within dentistry ✨ transitioning into undergraduate & postgraduate education ✨ and what the future of dentistry could look like 👀 I’ve known Alan for a long time, so it was really interesting to hear more about his journey — and the decisions that shaped it along the way 💡 If you’ve ever thought about changing direction or exploring opportunities beyond clinical practice… this one’s for you 🫶 Everything from today’s episode is linked in the show notes 🎧 If you enjoy this, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and send it to a friend in dentistry who might need to hear it 💌 You can also join us over on Substack (link in bio) ✍️ & if you’re thinking about what’s next for your career, DM me LINK for your free career planning workbook I’ll send it straight over 📩✨ Huge thank you to Siobhan Kelleher Education and Lighthouse Dental Company for sponsoring this episode 🤍 To find out more about GSK click here To find out more about Curaprox and Curaden click here To learn more about Curaden academy click here Upcoming iTop training course in Belfast with Diane Rochford here You can find Alan on Link’dIn here You can find more information about Siobhan Kelleher’s courses here You can find more information about Lighthouse Dental Company here We’ll be back next week with another conversation ✨🎙️

  • May 21 · 1 hr

    S5 Ep 5 : Are Dental Therapists Still Fighting to be Seen? Forward Thinking with Lauren Long

    New episode dayyyy 🎙️✨ This week on Conversations With Dental Friends I’m joined by the incredible Lauren Long and honestly… this conversation is SUCH an important one for dental therapists everywhere 🫶 Lauren shares her journey into dental therapy, the challenges she faced getting started and how finding the right supportive team completely changed the direction of her career 💭 Now thriving within the Pain Free Dental Group, advocating for therapists through the British Association of Dental Therapists and helping fellow therapists build confidence through her refresher course Restore ✨ We chat about 👇 🦷 Building confidence in practice 🦷 Finding the right team culture 🦷 Making the most of your scope 🦷 Learning from colleagues and lifting others up 🦷 Getting dental therapy working successfully within practice 🦷 Creating a career you genuinely LOVE One thing I loved about this episode is how honest Lauren is about the hurdles she faced before landing her dream role. I know so many therapists will relate to this conversation 💛 If you’re a dental therapist, hygienist, student or part of a team wanting to make better use of the full clinical team… this episode is for you 🎧 As always thank you SO much for listening and supporting Conversations With Dental Friends 🫶✨ Also a huge thankyou to Siobhan Kelleher education and lighthouse dental company for sponsoring this episode You can find out about the scope of a dental therapist here You can find out more about about BADT here You can find out more about BSDHT here You can find out more about NSK Ikigai here You can read more about Ikigai here You can find out more about the pain free dentistry group here You can find out more about Lauren & Ailish’s Restore course here More info about smile dental academy here Tell us in the comments 👇 What’s been the biggest thing that’s helped build YOUR confidence in practice? 💭

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