Neutral Zone

Meet Zeeshan.

Zeeshan studied restorative dentistry at the Eastman Dental Institute before developing a career focused on complex restorative and referral work, alongside a passion for teaching, learning and staying active outside of dentistry.

In this episode we talk about finding your direction in dentistry, learning from failure, the importance of experience and mentorship, and why quietly letting your work speak for itself can be a real flex. 

We also talk about starting a community run club, recovering from injury, balancing family life with dentistry, switching off after demanding days, and learning not to take every setback so seriously.

@zdr.chawdhri

Meet Karina.

Karina has been a dentist for 15 years, with a passion for cosmetic dentistry, creating meaningful patient experiences, and continually learning from the people around her.

In this episode we talk about finding your identity beyond dentistry, building confidence through experience, the emotional side of treating patients, and learning to embrace failure and criticism.

We also talk about the importance of mentorship, taking time to switch off, protecting your physical and mental wellbeing, navigating social media, and what success really means beyond being “number one”.

@drkarinakowalski

Meet Nowais.

Nowais studied dentistry in Madrid before returning to London, where he has developed a real passion for restorative dentistry and adhesive techniques.

In this episode we talk about finding your identity beyond dentistry, learning from clinical experience, taking pride in your work, and understanding the “why” behind what we do.

We also talk about studying abroad, building confidence in a new language, switching off from dentistry, and finding balance through fitness, cooking, driving and routine.

@dr.nowaisawan

Meet Sam.

Sam is a dentist and practice owner in Bristol. He has owned his practice since 2018, after 11 years as an associate.

In this episode we talk about the transition from associate to practice owner, navigating COVID and the challenges of moving from NHS to private practice, as well as finding more balance and enjoyment in dentistry.

We also talk about the importance of rituals, mentorship, community and asking for help — and why CPD should never just be a tick-box exercise.

@samuellabib

Meet Cony

Cony is originally from South Africa but from a big Greek family. 

She has spent 25 years in the UK, building a career in dentistry alongside meeting her partner Jim and raising their two boys here. 

After many years of ownership, Cony has recently started a new chapter, working across three practices in Brighton.

In this episode we talk about identity, the never-ending pursuit of learning and of an opportunity that came her way that she just couldn’t refuse. 

We also chat about mentors, motherhood, burnout, and connection with patients. 

@drconycaravotas

Meet Richard. 

Richard spent years working in an NHS hospital consultant role in restorative dentistry but now dedicates most of his working week to teaching alongside private clinical practice. 

Some of you will know him through attending courses at Aspire dental academy - now held at the new state-of-the-art Aspire Clinic in London's Fitzrovia.

In this episode we talk about all the Cs - connection and communication, and the importance of comfort and confidence in competence. 

@rwj_porter

@aspiredentalacademy

Meet Stewart.

Belfast born, Newcastle trained, London refined. 

We discuss workplace anxiety, the importance of boundaries, the BTS of dental courses and how a big move is on the cards for him soon.  

@drstewartbeggs

Meet Simona. 

A Romanian dentist now working across London, with a special interest in endodontics. 

Simona is a real people person with a passion for her work and life. 

We chat about the importance of finding good mentors, positivity, failing forwards and why we can all do anything we put our minds to. 

@simonaloghin_dentist

Meet Aaron. 

Aaron is a practice owner, educator, endodontist and entrepreneuer whose passion for problem solving extends far beyond dentistry. 

We talk about identity, family life, fitness, practice ownership, teaching, burnout and the relentless pursuit of growth. 

A conversation about problem-solving, purpose, balance, and embracing opportunities when they appear. 

@vishandaaron

Meet Kish.
An accomplished orthodontist balancing work across NHS hospitals and private practice.
We discuss the sacrifices of specialist training, the qualities that make a great trainee, the
importance of life beyond dentistry, and why a future law degree might be on the horizon.
A thoughtful clinician with ambitions that extend well beyond the clinic.
@dr.kishan.ortho