In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast, ClaireNightingale shares her remarkable journey from being inspired by her own dentist at age 12 to becoming an award-winning orthodontist and practice owner.
With a wealth of clinical experience and a passion for business growth, Claire reveals how embracing technology, developing her team, and maintaining a clear sense of purpose has helped her achieve outstanding results — bothclinically and in practice leadership.
We explore themes such as:
· Building a thriving orthodontic practice withpurpose and vision
· Embracing digital innovation to enhance patientcare
· Balancing clinical excellence with businessleadership
· Mentoring and empowering the next generation ofdental professionals
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or dental team leader, Claire’s inspiring journey offers powerful insights into achieving clinical success while fostering a high-performance culture.
Tune in now to discover how aligning purpose, leadership, and innovation can unlock new levels of success in your practice.
You can connect with Claire here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-nightingale-59654864/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here: 🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this inspiring episode of the Dentistry on PurposePodcast, Craig Welling shares his remarkable leadershipjourney—from telesales junior to CEO and co-owner of FMC.
Craig opens up about the defining moments that shaped his career, including the courageous decision to invest in the company he once worked for.
We delve into powerful themes of:
· Finding purpose in leadership
· Creating meaning in your career
· Building high-performance dental teams
· Leading with courage and conviction
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or part of a dental team seeking to grow and thrive, Craig's insights offer invaluable lessons on embracing risk, developing resilience, and unlocking your full potential.
Tune in now for a conversation that could reshape how you think about leadership, growth, and finding purpose in your work.
You can connect with Craig here:
http://linkedin.com/in/craig-welling-494a5a31/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here: 🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast,Joel Mannix shares his journey from rural Australia to becoming Head of Dental at Christie & Co, where he now leads an award-winning team of regional dental business advisors.
With extensive experience selling dental practices across Scotland, Joel offers powerful insights into maximising practice value, navigating sales, and building a practice that thrives with purpose and long-term vision.
We explore themes such as:
· Understanding the true value of your dentalpractice
· Preparing your practice for a successful sale ortransition
· Leading your team through periods of change andgrowth
· Creating a high-performance environment thatdrives business success
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or dental team leader, Joel’s insights will help you future-proof your practice, ensure it operates at maximum value, and secure its long-term success.
Tune in now to uncover strategies that can unlock your practice’s full potential.
You can connect with Joel here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-mannix-34b36883/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here: 🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast,Lucie Simic shares her inspiring journey from journalist to dental business consultant, communication trainer, and practice manager coach.
With over a decade of experience, Lucie’s expertise has helped countless dental practices create sustainable growth, happier teams, and stronger patient connections.
We explore themes such as:
-Developing meaningful communication to improve team dynamics
-Coaching practice managers to lead with confidence and clarity
-Building a practice culture that attracts top talent and retains patients
-Delivering exceptional customer service that drives practice growth
Whatever your role in practice, Lucie’s insights will help you create a practice environment where both your team and your patients thrive.
Tune in now to discover how effective communication and leadership can unlock your practice’s full potential.
You can connect with Lucie here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucie-simic-89892526/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here: 🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast,Dr. Paul Abrahams shares his journey from a general dentist to a pioneer in digital and cosmetic dentistry. Paul’s warm, friendly, and generous nature shines through as he reflects on his extensive experience supporting dental professionals and associations across the UK.
A brilliant speaker and passionate mentor, Paul discusses how integrating advanced technologies can enhance patient care, improve practice efficiency, and drive professional growth.
We explore themes such as:
-Implementing digital solutions to elevate clinical practice
-Leading a dental team through technological transitions
-Balancing innovation with personalised patient care
-Investing in the dental community through mentorship and associationsupport
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or part of a dental team aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field, Paul’s insights offer valuable guidance on embracing innovation with purpose.
Tune in to discover how adopting digital advancements — while leading with warmth and generosity — can revolutionise your practice and enhance patient satisfaction.
You can connect with Paul here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-abrahams-3aa50226/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this inspiring episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast, Dr Leticia Casanova shares her remarkable journey fromvolunteer dentist to specialist periodontist and co-founder of London Periodontics, Implants & Dentistry (LPID).
Leticia’s passion for purpose and impact led to the creation of Gold for Kids, a charity that turns discarded dental restorations into vital funds for underprivileged children.
We talk about some inspiring topics, like:
-Finding deeper meaning in your dental career
-Balancing clinical excellence with social responsibility
-Leading with compassion to create lasting impact
-Inspiring your team to align with a bigger purpose
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or part of a dental team, Leticia's story offers powerful lessons in leadership, purpose, and giving back.
Tune in now to hear how turning overlooked resources into life-changing opportunities can help you build a dental practice with true purpose.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
You can connect with Leticia here:
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast, Joe Lovett shares his journey from a sales professional to a leading consultant in the dental industry.
He discusses the importance of authentic relationships, ethical business practices, and how tailored sales and marketing strategies can drive growth for dental practices.
We delve into themes like:
- Building genuine connections within the dental community- Implementing ethical and effective sales strategies
- Mentoring and developing the next generation of dental professionals
- Adapting to the evolving landscape of dental media and marketing
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or part of a dental team aiming to enhance your practice's growth, Joe's insights offer valuable perspectives on integrating purpose-driven sales and marketing strategies.
Tune in to discover how redefining your approach to sales and marketing can serve as the catalyst for your practice's success.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
You can follow Joe here:
https://www.instagram.com/joelovettcatalyst/?hl=en
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this episode of the Dentistry on PurposePodcast, Hazel Woodward shares her journey from science educator to leading a successful social media agency tailored for the dental industry.
Hazel discusses the pivotal role of purpose-driven social media in modern dental practices and how it can lead to increased patient engagement and practice growth.
We delve into themes such as:
- Crafting meaningful content that resonates with patients
- Leveraging social media algorithms for maximumreach
- Empowering dental teams to engageauthentically online
- Aligning social media content with yourpractice's core values
Whether you're a practice principal, partner,or part of a dental team aiming to enhance your online presence, Hazel's insights offer practical strategies to harness the power of social media effectively.
Tune in to discover how a purposeful socialmedia approach can transform your dental practice's engagement and growth.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
You can follow Hazel here:https://www.instagram.com/lift.dental/
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's workhere:
🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
In this episode of the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast, Hannan and Daniel Saleem share their journey from a non-clinical background to running and significantly growing London Dental Centre, a successful family-owned practice in the heart of the City of London.
They discuss the importance of networking, mentorship, and how strategic business decisions have helped them modernise and expand their practice. Having been part of the Dental Practice Accelerator hosted by FMC and Align Technology, they had the opportunity to be mentored by leading industry experts such as Shaz Memon, Sandeep Kumar, Sameer Patel, and Justin Leigh. This experience played a pivotal role in refining their approach to business growth and patient engagement.
We delve into themes like:
The power of mentorship and networking in scaling a dental practice
Transitioning into dentistry from a non-clinical background and navigating challenges
Implementing effective digital workflows and modern marketing strategies
Enhancing patient experience and growing Invisalign and implant case volumes
Whether you're a practice principal, partner, or part of a dental team aiming to take your business to the next level, Hannan and Daniel’s insights offer valuable lessons on integrating strategic, purpose-driven business strategies into your practice.
Tune in to hear their inspiring story and discover how redefining your approach to business, marketing, and leadership can be the key to sustainable practice growth.
This is another impactful episode with two inspiring leaders in the dental industry.
You can follow the Saleem brothers here:🔗 https://www.instagram.com/thesaleembrothers/
🔗 https://linktr.ee/thesaleembrothers
You can follow London Dental Centre here:🔗 https://www.thelondondentalcentre.co.uk
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how:Connect with Justin Leigh here:🔗 https://linktr.ee/JustinLeighLearn more about Justin's work here:🔗 https://focus4growth.co.ukConnect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:🔗 https://www.marktopley.co.uk
In this inspiring episode, Justin sits down with Afeef Hadi, a first-year dentistry student at King’s College London, to explore his unique career journey and ambitious vision for the future.
They delve into Afeef’s background, from growing up in a small village in Northern England to building a dynamic personal brand and thriving network within the dental industry.
Afeef shares how dentistry became his chosen path—not through external influence, but as a blend of purpose and innovation.
He reveals his ultimate goal: revolutionising the dental industry by bringing in significant investment and elevating it to the level of pharmaceuticals and veterinary medicine.
The conversation also highlights Afeef’s remarkable success on LinkedIn, where his strategic networking has led to over 250 professional meetings with industry leaders, as well as his insights on culture, purpose, and maximising impact.
Justin and Afeef discuss the importance of networking, the alignment of values with career aspirations, and the potential for future collaborations with different stakeholders in dentistry.
Packed with wisdom, ambition, and actionable advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the dental field—or any industry—looking to make meaningful connections and create a lasting impact.
Links & Resources:
Listen now and get inspired by Afeef’s journey and vision for the future!
Learn more about Justin's work here:
🔗https://focus4growth.co.uk
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Kunal Thakker.
Kunal has had a proven success of innovating and operating dental practices across the UK.
As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tooth Club; an ultra modern, membership based dental practice, providing clients a relaxing experience from the moment they step inside, to the cutting-edge technology and treatments they receive. Kunal’s passion for dentistry and improving the dental experience for patients, has abolished barriers within the dental industry. Considering himself a patient, he understands the stigma and stress around dental visits. With Tooth Club he aids clients in achieving glamourous smiles through providing premium, enjoyable dentistry in an environment that not only uses leading technological treatments but highly focuses on the patients experience. When you visit Tooth Club, you can expect refreshing office scents, Netflix in room, premium beverage stations and always professional staff and service.
Backed with nearly 16 years leadership within the financial sector from top investment banks and a history of proven success managing and selling dental ventures, Kunal strategically leads teams to not only achieve fiscal success but has aided a seismic movement in patient treatment within the dental industry.
Whether you’re looking for a glamourous new smile or interested in learning more about Tooth Club, reach out to Kunal and his team today and you’ll be greeted with a smile.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Shaz Memon. Shaz is an award-winning dental marketing expert.
Founder of Digimax Dental, the world’s highest rated dental marketing agency, Shaz has worked in the industry for more than two decades. Designer, marketer and business leader, he worked across a wide variety of sectors, gaining experience with leading names, including the BBC, before finding his preferred niche in dentistry marketing. Voted as Top 14th Most Influential in UK Dentistry Top 50 2020 and 2021. He has published two business volumes –Instagram for Dentists and Instagram for Business.
Shaz is also founder of the charity Wells on Wheels and training company Clinics.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Adrian Dray
Adrian Dray is a trusted advisor to dentists, specialising in data protection. Recently, he has delved into artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, and its potential to revolutionise the dental industry. Adrian authored the essential guide "ChatGPT: A Dental Business Game-changer," positioning himself as a visionary thought leader in dentistry, eager to help practitioners stay ahead of the curve.
The link to my book https://dental.adriandray.consulting/chatGPT-DWI
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Grant McAree.
Grant McAree Is a passionate dental mentor through and through. Wears his heart on his sleeve and has gained a reputation as the “no-nonsense, tell-all” dentist on social media. His Ugly Truth videos have now been watched hundreds of thousands of times across the globe earning him a marmite reputation. You either love him or you don't but listen to what he has to say - he has seen it and worn the T-shirt and is happy to tell all.
Grant grosses over £1 million a year on a 3-day week (Ethically!)
An author of the number 1 Amazon bestseller "It ain't rocket science"
A family man. Who enjoys time out, wine and a sunny beach with waves to surf on.
He has...
Created a Facebook page with over 6.8 thousand dentists and marketers.
Built 6 dental squat practices
Sold 5 million pounds worth of dental businesses
Achieved only 2 ‘O’ levels yet managed to get 2 degrees and become a dentist
Built one of the fastest-growing dental chatbots & CRM systems
Mentored dentists worldwide
Sell out courses for dentists to learn about dental marketing & business
Runner up for dental industry awards for his marketing & advertising course
Become a diamond Invisalign provider
Built the fastest-growing and one of the largest private squat practices in Devon over a 4 year period
Voted for but failed to make the top 50 most influential dentists in the UK. Maybe next year!
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Payman Langroudi. Payman leads a team that has developed several whitening techniques used by dentists all over the world including Enlighten, the only whitening system in the world to guarantee results.
Payman is also course coordinator at Mini Smile Makeover and co host of the Dental Leaders Podcast.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Dr Manrina Rhode.
Dr Manrina Rhode is a Cosmetic Dentist and founder of DRMR Clinic and Cosmetic Dentistry Training Academy based in Knightsbridge, London.
Manrina graduated from Guys Hospital London in 2002 and has since become known as one of the top cosmetic dentists in the UK. She continued her education at the top institutions around the world, achieving a Masters level in Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry at the prestigious New York Dental Institute and Advanced Occlusion Techniques (improving the contact between the upper and lower teeth) in Florida.
Manrina first learned facial aesthetics in 2004. She continues to upgrade her skills and knowledge as technological advances demand.
Manrina was awarded Dentist of the Year 2022 at the Dental Awards.
You can learn more about Manrina through her website and Instagram, details below.
Website: https://www.drmrlondon.co.uk Instagram: @DrManrinaRhode
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Andy Acton. Andy is a serial entrepreneur developing the FTA group of companies, a full range of business services for the dental profession.
Andy has been involved in the business of dentistry for over 22 years and is the director and co-owner of Frank Taylor & Associates, FTA Media, FTA Finance, FTA Financial & Wealth Management and FTA Law.
Andy is a sought after public speaker covering topics including leadership, management, marketing and the future value of dental practices.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Dr Martina Hodgson.
Dr Martina is a Diamond Apex Invisalign provider placing her in the top 1% of Invisalign providers in EMEA. She is the owner of two dental practices in Yorkshire - The Dental Studio and The Dental Architect - winners of UK Best Patient Care and UK Practice of the Year respectively at the recent 2022 Dentistry Awards.
Named in the Dentistry Top 50 in 2021 and 2022 and voted best Dentist North and Central 2020 (highly commended), she was one of the first dentists in the world to be awarded the Postgraduate Diploma in Clear Aligner therapy. She sits on the Private Dentistry Journal Editorial Advisory Board and regularly writes articles for the dental and general press.
Martina has developed a world-class digital patient journey within her practices and is dedicated to sharing her knowledge by mentoring her associates and team as well as hosting regular events and study clubs for her peers.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
🔗https://www.marktopley.co.uk
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Mahrukh Khwaja.
Dr. Mahrukh Khwaja is a dentist, positive psychologist, accredited mindfulness teacher, and the founder and CEO of Mind Ninja, an award-winning wellness start-up dedicated to improving mental health and resilience among dental teams.
Mind Ninja’s comprehensive range of training, coaching, and wellness products, including the signature Mind Flossing Toolkit, have been implemented by a diverse range of organisations, including Unilever, Colgate, NHS Health Education England, King's College London, Acteon, British Dental Association, and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.
Dr. Khwaja has been named Top 50 in Dentistry two years in a row (2022 and 2021) by FMC for her work on Mental Health in Dentistry.
She is also the author of the upcoming book Resilience and Well-being for Dental Professionals, scheduled for publication in Jan 2023 by Wiley-Blackwell.
Email her on mahrukh@mind-ninja.co.uk or connect with her on Instagram @mindninja.wellbeing.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here:
Welcome to the Dentistry on Purpose Podcast.
In this episode Mark & Justin talk with Anshu Sood.
"My clinical purpose is to ensure that each and every one of our clients is thrilled with their treatment and their new smile. Orthodontics is so much more than straight teeth - the difference we see in our patients, their confidence, their self esteem is what drives us each day. Personally, my daily inspiration is to be better than I was yesterday." - Anshu Sood
Anshu qualified from the University of Sheffield in 1998, went on to vocational training in Nottinghamshire, and then worked as a junior doctor in oral and maxillofacial surgery at United Lincolnshire Hospital Trust.
Anshu then moved to London to work at the prestigious Eastman Dental Institute and also Great Ormond Street. She ended up moving back to Sheffield to train as an orthodontist and qualified in 2006. Since then Anshu has been working in specialist practice. Co-owner of two specialists practices, one a tender bid and one a private squat, she is well versed in the business of orthodontics.
Anshu is a Speaker for Invialign and Dental monitoring, being a keen user of dental technology and innovation. She is also heavily involved with the British Orthodontic Society and has been since 2007 holding various posts on committees and now being on the Board of Trustees as Director of Clinical Practice. She has most recently been part of the Safemile campaign to educate patients on the risks of Direct to Consumer Orthodontics.
She always wanted to be a marine biologist and is an advanced PADI qualified scuba diver. Her aspiration remains to go diving with great white sharks. Just now, though, she enjoys yoga, reading, travelling and socialising.
This is another amazing episode with an inspiring leader in dentistry.
If you'd like to get to know your hosts a little better, here's how.
Connect with Justin Leigh here:
🔗https://linktr.ee/JustinLeigh
Learn more about Justin's work here:
Connect with Mark Topley & learn more about his work here: