Dental + Meaningful

This Dental + Meaningful conversation feels different.I’m sitting on Deborah’s couch, we don’t just hear about her life, we see it. Creativity isn’t something she does on the side, it’s how she moves through the World. Deborah’s art spans from prints to shoemaking to sculptures, working with various mediums to capture her humour and unique take on life.We explore her time providing dental care in Aboriginal communities, the cultural experience, indigenous health gap, and what it means to show up with humility. She speaks with honesty about significant health challenges, including cancer and multiple strokes. Yet, what stands out is her humour. Her generosity. Her ability to keep her heart open.Deborah embodies lifelong learning, collecting degrees and certifications, methodically disproving a teacher who once told her she wasn’t smart enough. Dentistry gave her independence. Art gave her voice. She shares an important truth many women recognise: You must learn to stand for yourself. No one is coming to rescue you.A truly enjoyable conversation, Debbie reminds us that a life well lived is not monochromatic. It is bold. It is textured. And you’ll want to add your own colours to it. Learn more about Deborah and her art

This episode of Dental & Meaningful is one of the most candid and important conversations to date and a great one to open 2026 with!I’m joined by Dr Ellie Borgelt for an honest discussion about the lived realities of many women in dentistry. We discuss gender bias in clinical environments, including sexual harassment in the workplace (trigger warning), and the emotional toll of building a successful career in a patriarchal system.Dr Borgelt shares her journey as an immigrant dentist to Australia, rebuilding a professional identity from the ground up. We also explore her experience as a single parent to 3 teenagers, carrying the load of her career, business, motherhood, and her own health & happiness.A powerful part of this conversation centres on menopause, self-care, and the mindset shift that comes with choosing to finally prioritise yourself after years of putting everyone else first. Ellie brings a hopeful, energising perspective to this chapter of life, one that is truly infectious.This episode is a must-listen for women in dentistry seeking validation, solidarity, and reassurance that they are not alone, it’s never too late to start choosing yourself.

If you need some powerfully uplifting energy and joyful grit in your life right now, this is for you. I sit down with Dr. Purnima Kumar in Vienna for this conversation. She is the head of department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine at the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry. She has built a wonderfully successful and accomplished career in research and academics, whilst also finding time for countless philanthropic pursuits and tangible initiatives to lift other women in dentistry. We cover her career experience through tertiary institutions, her passionate advocacy of the "He for She" movement, and countless insights and wisdoms hard-earned from a colourful career in dentistry.This is one not to be missed!Chapters00:03:00 Experience as Immigrant- India to USA00:09:00 Importance of Adapting to Change00:15:00 Middle East and Challenges in Academia00:21:00 Family and Support Systems00:27:00 Advocacy and Women in Leadership00:33:00 Innovations and Contributions00:39:00 Wholeheartedly Embracing the Present

This was a beautiful episode covering multiple facets of the lived experience of a woman in our profession. Dr Parul Bhatia's strength shines through as quiet fortitude and hope in the journey she shares with us. We open with the bittersweet experience of selling the practice she build from scratch but ultimately looks towards all the different possibilities in her next chapter with great anticipation and excitement. Parul shares her internal suffering from needing to re-sit her final year exams amidst difficult personal events, to the guilt of endometriosis pain and struggles of IVF, managing menopause, to the shame of almost failing in her business once but coming out stronger and more equipped. She had to find her own path to success and continues to do so. Through it all she remains connected to what brings her joy and inspiration- her creativity. Parul is determined to bring more empathy and ease to our fellow colleagues. Enjoy the episode!Chapters00:01:00 Applying Business Skills to Dentistry00:03:00 Selling the Practice and Finding Balance00:05:00 Mental Health and Empathy in Dentistry00:07:00 Challenges of Practice Ownership00:09:00 The Impact of Perimenopause00:11:00 Creative Outlets for Professionals00:13:00 Building a Supportive Community00:15:00 Leadership and Growth in Dentistry

Episode SummaryReady to check in with yourself and come out feeling recharged?In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Olan Hartley for a soul-nourishing conversation that’s equal parts grounding and uplifting.We talk about redefining self-worth, recognising the quiet signs of burnout, setting boundaries with intention, and making gratitude more than just a passing thought.Olan’s grace, clarity, and fierce commitment to growth are magnetic. She inspires us to hold ourselves to accountability with compassion. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to re-align with your purpose, this one’s for you.Whether you're curious about mentorship, navigating burnout, or just craving space for honest self-reflection, Olan is that voice of calm you didn’t know you needed.

This is the first in a six-part bonus series where I’ll be bringing you into our Cusp Collective conference this year. These episodes are my personal reflections of each speaker's presentation, what I took from it, how I use it in my life and how it can be applied to your clinical practice. First up is Annelise McCarthy, founder of Her Speaking Coach and an expert in public speaking and powerful communication.We talk confidence, presence, and assertive language; and how these skills take you from consult rooms to tough conversations. Communication shapes how we’re seen, how we lead, and how we thrive as clinicians.I'll share the 3 most impactful insights that I have been practising all year, and how correcting a drinks order reminded me of an important life lesson.This episode is for everyone who needs a strong nudge to start using their voice, as Annelise urges us all to do.

In this episode, Dr. Tiffany Chen and Dr. Suelen Cella explore the profound journey of resilience, the challenges and triumphs Suelen has experienced in her dental and personal journey.Suelen shares her inspiring story of moving from a rural upbringing in Brazil to becoming a successful dentist in Australia, overcoming trauma, and navigating the complexities of family planning, IVF, and career aspirations. Our conversation highlights the importance of education for women, support systems, and the pursuit of happiness in both personal and professional realms.Chapters00:00Introduction to Dr. Sue Ellen Cella02:54From Rural Brazil to Dentistry05:19Overcoming Adversity and Pursuing Education07:41Experiences of Violence and Its Impact10:06Finding Peace and Strength in Adversity12:40Transitioning to a New Life in Australia14:57The Joy of Working in a Gourmet Food Shop17:19Returning to Dentistry and Career Growth19:56Recognition and Achievements in the Dental Field22:57The Importance of Mental Health and Support25:33Innovative Marketing Strategies in Dentistry28:04Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey of Achievements36:46Finding Peace After Success39:03The Importance of Physical Health41:33Preparing for Motherhood42:05Navigating IVF Challenges45:34Balancing Work and IVF48:50The Emotional Toll of Motherhood52:03Perspective on Parenthood55:01The Power of Communication57:36Embracing Aging and Change01:00:13The Role of Information in Health01:03:16The Journey of Self-Improvement1:04:15The Importance of Community in Dentistry

After our annual conference, the buzzing energy stays with me as I take a break from prepping for the event and continue post-event admin. I created this platform at a time when I needed support like this but couldn't find it. It was also a time perhaps I couldn't have made it to every event.This is why the podcast exists, to bring the much needed conversations and connections to you. In support of that, this bonus episode brings the conference experience to you and kicks off a short series where I share my reflections and the key ideas I took away from each speaker's presentation. My aim with our in person event is to ensure women in dentistry feel seen and heard, that you come away feeling energised, having formed meaningful connections with fellow colleagues, and inspired to make changes that will serve you better. If even just one new idea changes the way you show up in your work and life, that’s the biggest win for me.Stay tuned for upcoming episodes and subscribe on our website to be the first to know when early bird sales are open for our 2026 conference.

Episode SummaryAnd we're back! It was a longer break than anticipated but it was much needed. And no better episode to return to than thissoul nourishing conversation with Dr. Sara Lonergan. We talk about the peace she finds in her menagerie ofanimals, the sanctuary she’s created outside of clinical life, and the intentional way she’s built one of the most welcoming clinics I’ve ever stepped into. From the moment I stepped into her clinic reception, I felt my muscles relax. It was truly the most welcoming clinical space I have been in. Sara’s thoughtful approach goes beyond aesthetics or state-of-the-art dental equipment into the approach she takes in patient care and the systems in place with her business and staff. It is a remarkable creation to witness. And of course, I had to ask how all the cogs turn whilst raising 5 children.Sara shares her refreshingly grounded take on success, her antidote to imposter syndrome, and some media recs for those whose minds are always on the move. This is a conversation about expectations of ourselves, cultivating ease, and choosing stillness in a world that romanticizes hustle.

In this episode, we talk about all the things we carry as women in this profession. Dr. Annalene Weston shares her insights andwisdom from decades in dentistry. We explore her experiences of moral injury as a young dentist in the NHS, how she addressed burnout and pivoted her career. We dive into her role as head of advisory at DPL and encounters withgender bias, as well as challenges of being a working mom. Annalene is a passionate advocate for open discussions and adequate support for the mental and emotional wellbeing of our fellow colleagues. Chapters:00:00 Understanding Mental Health in Dentistry01:40 Impact of Gender Bias in Healthcare07:35 Personal Journeys and Influences in Dentistry15:24 Moral Injury and Aligning Values in Dentistry20:57 Finding Fulfillment in Dental Practice32:12 Navigating Career and Motherhood38:59 The Challenges of Being a Working Mother 46:19 Overcoming Gender Bias in the Workplace51:07 Leadership and Personal Growth 56:22 Legacy and Impact in the Dental Profession 01:03:12 Reflections and Advice for the Younger Self 01:06:15 The Importance of Community in Dentistry

In this conversation, Dr. Leonora Langstaff shares her journey as a dentist transitioning from the UK to Australia, her passion for teaching and mentoring new graduates, and the challenges she faced in various workplaces in her early career. She emphasizes the value of mentorship and support in the dental field. Dr. Langstaff also recounts unique experiences, including working at a detention center, and offers advice for those navigating challenging work environments. She is living proof that you can and should stand by your values and what you require to thrive in your workplace. After all, we spend large chunks of our days there!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Leonora Langstaff00:38 Influence of Family and Personal Growth04:52 Journey into Dentistry 07:40 Mentor & Mentee in Dentistry09:23 Challenges Faced in Early Career14:17 Navigating Difficult Work Environments18:00 Support Systems and Coping Mechanisms21:23 Moving on from Toxic Experiences23:31 Adventures in Mobile Dentistry27:54 Career Development and Learning32:08 Finding Your Fit - the Right Work Environment36:29 The Value of Networking

Episode SummaryIn this episode, I’m joined by the deeply thoughtful and grounded Dr. Thao.We explore what really matters in dentistry beyond your clinical skills. Dr. Thao reminds us that who you are as a person-your emotional intelligence and how you treat others- has a greater impact than any technical ability.We dive into professional courtesy, navigating clinical difficulties without shame, redefining failure, and the importance of open communication in a field that can sometimes feel isolating. Dr. Thao reflects on her experiences with public speaking, and shares how the role mentorship and great teaching have played in shaping her, and how rock climbing has become both a stress release and a metaphor for how she approaches life.This one’s for anyone who’s ever wondered how to hold compassion, courage, and competence all at once. Let’s get into it!Chapters00:00 Personal Journey: Immigrant Experience and Identity06:33 Professionalism and Personal Boundaries as a Woman10:35 Collaboration and Supprt Make Us Better Clinicians15:04 Overcoming Gender Bias in the Dental Field18:24 Owning Our Mistakes: Transparency Builds Trust25:07 The Power of Repetition and Positive Reinforcement28:07 Navigating Criticism Without Crumbling and Building Resilience31:29 What a Supportive Learning Environment Really Looks Like35:06 Rock Climbing and Dentistry: How Problem Solving Builds Strength41:14 Authenticity at Work: Integrating Personal and Professional Selves44:06 Trusting the Process and Embracing Opportunities

In this uplifting conversation, Dr. Tiffany Chen chats with Dr. Amesha Maree about her inspiring journey to becoming an orthodontist whilst navigating her transition into single parenting. Dr. Maree shares her experiences of resilience and grit, the importance of finding one's voice, and embracing vulnerability. She emphasizes the value of empathy in business and reflects on her motivations and the support she has received throughout her journey. Dr Maree encourages us to keep expanding ourselves and ignoring the limitations set by others. Chapters00:00 Meet Dr. Amesha Maree: Orthodontist, Mum, Trailblazer03:37 From Dreaming at 10 to Doing It06:47 Divorce, Single Parenting & Staying the Course09:02 Learning to Speak Up11:23 The Village That Helped Build the Vision 13:31 How Dr Maree integrates her passion for ortho and her love of her sons15:53 The Inner Fire That Keeps Her Moving18:44 What They Don’t Tell You About Running a Practice21:01 Dr Maree's superpower as a clinician23:52 You’re Stronger Than You Know: Her Message to You35:39 What Dental & Meaningful Is All About36:03 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going36:07 Stay Bold, Embrace your Brilliance

SummaryHello and welcome to our very first episode!I am Dr Tiffany Chen, founder of The Cusp Collective and host of Dental & meaningful. For this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Aovana Timmerman and am impressed at every turn by her passion for teaching and her approach to tackling difficult situations.You might know her as the endodontist with an engaging Instagram presence, or the one who runs marathons in her spare time. But in this first episode of Dental & Meaningful, we go much deeper.Here with Dr. Aovana Timmerman, specialist endodontist and educator, we unpack the journey that shaped her into the clinician, and woman, that she is today. From the subtle complexities of transitioning from general practice into specialization, to navigating burnout, and facing unconscious gender biases head-on, Aovana shares it all with honesty and clarity.Her passion for supporting the next generation of dentists is palpable, and her resilience shines in the way she meets discomfort with curiosity and determination. We talk about teaching, lateral thinking, pre-empting burnout, and why social media isn’t just a tool, it’s visibility and connection.This episode is full of grounded wisdom, and powerful insights on pushing boundaries, having courage to take action, and sitting with discomfort. Anything is possible, if you're willing to do the work.Let’s get into it! Chapters00:00 Introduction 02:51 Teaching and Mentoring in Dentistry06:08 The Role of Social Media in Dental Education08:55 Personal Journey and Challenges in Dentistry11:50 Transitioning from General Dentistry to Specialization14:46 Experiences in Forensic Odontology18:01 Life as a Specialist: Expectations vs. Reality20:51 Building a Referral Base as a New Specialist24:07 Navigating Professional Relationships and Competition26:45 Conclusion and Future Aspirations31:57 Building Connections Through Social Media35:02 Gender Dynamics in Dentistry40:29 Navigating Unconscious Bias as a Female Specialist49:31 Finding Balance in Professional and Personal Life53:52 Pushing Boundaries: Embracing Challenges01:00:26 Reflections and Advice for the Future

Welcome to Dental & Meaningful - a creation from The Cusp CollectiveHi! I'm Tiffany, periodontist, founder of The Cusp Collective, and host of Dental & Meaningful. This isn’t just another dental podcast- it’s a space for raw, real, and powerful conversations with high-achieving women in dentistry. We go beyond the accolades, diving into the highs, the lows, and everything in-between.If you’re ready for deep and meaningful (D&M, get it??) conversations that inspire, energise, and leave you with wisdom to apply to your own career, you’re in the right place. Because dentistry is about more than teeth- it’s about the lives we impact, and how we show up for this journey.Hit Follow, Play, and Share with your friends who needs this. Let’s get into it!