Episode Title:

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

Episode Description:

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: april@fanaticaldreamher.com

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!

‍ ‍