S09 E03: Paul Abrahams on ownership, innovation, and knowing when to let go

In this episode of the Two Reds podcast, Chris Barrow is joined by Dr Paul Abrahams of Smile More Dental Care in London for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about career longevity, practice ownership, innovation and exit strategy. With Ashley Latter away in Australia, Chris and Paul take the opportunity to explore Paul's remarkable journey from an uncertain start in the early 1980s, through qualification at Guy's in 1989, to building and eventually selling a highly respected two-surgery private practice in St John's Wood. Paul reflects on the early influence of retail training at Marks & Spencer, the importance of mentors, and the role played by his long-standing principal and friend in shaping both his career and his outlook. There is a strong message here for younger dentists about the value of guidance, patience and backing yourself when opportunities appear. The conversation then moves into ownership. Paul shares the story of acquiring what was, in effect, a doer-upper squat in one of London's most affluent postcodes, and how he built that business steadily over more than two decades. Rather than chasing scale for its own sake, he chose to create what Chris describes as a successful lifestyle business, rooted in community, family patients and long-term trust. There is also a fascinating discussion about innovation. Paul explains why he has always been drawn to new ideas, from cosmetic dentistry in the early days to digital scanning and chairside technology more recently. His view is simple, the only constant is change, and practices that stay curious tend to stay relevant. Finally, Chris and Paul discuss the decision to sell into Dentex, the importance of timing, and the emotional reality of letting go. Paul offers a particularly valuable insight for anyone considering a sale, if you are not ready to give up control, you may not yet be ready to sell. This is a warm, honest and intelligent conversation with one of dentistry's genuinely good people. For young owners, established principals and anyone thinking about what comes next, there is much to take away.