From Rule Follower to Trailblazer: Dr. Hanh Phi on Leadership, Compassion, and Building a Practice with Heart

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Hanh Phi, founder of Nouvelle Dentistry in Greenwood Village, Colorado. Known for her patient-centered approach, commitment to comfort and education, and award-winning practice, Dr. Phi shares the journey that led her from a curious student exploring multiple career paths to becoming a respected leader in dentistry. Growing up in a refugee family, Dr. Phi describes how discipline, hard work, and a passion for learning shaped her path. While she never had one singular dream as a child, her experiences in healthcare and mentorship from exceptional dentists helped her discover a profession that combined science, artistry, leadership, and service. Along the way, she learned that success is not a destination but an evolving journey. Through stories of perseverance, leadership, overcoming self-doubt, and building a thriving practice in a traditionally male-dominated profession, Dr. Phi offers powerful encouragement for women and girls pursuing their own dreams. Her story is a reminder that exploration, mentorship, and courage can open doors you never imagined possible. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): (01:31) Why success feels like a journey rather than a destination (02:17) Exploring multiple interests before finding a career path (02:56) Working in healthcare, engineering, and dental practices during college (03:47) Studying biochemistry and microbiology at the University of Denver (04:11) Mentors who inspired her love of healthcare and science (05:25) Discovering dentistry through hands-on experience in dental offices (07:21) The challenges and pressures of dental school (09:24) How dentistry transformed her into a stronger leader (11:29) The unique blend of science, art, and service in dentistry (13:45) Finding fulfillment through helping anxious patients overcome fear (15:52) Starting a practice as a young Asian female dentist in an affluent community (17:25) The growing impact of women and women of color in dentistry (19:45) Encouraging young people to explore before choosing a path (20:49) The influence of her refugee family and their sacrifices (22:06) Advice for aspiring healthcare professionals (23:28) Why helping fearful patients find confidence keeps her motivated (25:13) Why her mother remains her greatest inspiration Notable Quotes: "I never felt that I reached my dream because my dream was always evolving." "Once you have that little seed of, 'Oh, I think I can do this,' I felt more empowered to lead others." "Art is very important in dentistry." "Women can flourish in a profession that is very much a male-dominated profession." "There is no limit to what we can be." "Try it out first. Explore." Takeaways: Dreams can evolve over time rather than appearing all at once. Mentorship plays a critical role in discovering career passions. Leadership develops through experience, confidence, and service to others. Exploring different opportunities can reveal unexpected strengths and interests. Women and women of color continue to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated professions. Empathy and compassion are powerful tools for building trust and lasting relationships. Family sacrifice and support can create opportunities for future generations to pursue their dreams. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://nouvelledentistry.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nouvelledentistry/ @nouvelledentistry Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ • April's email: [email protected] Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!