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

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/ [https://nouvelledentistry.com/] • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nouvelledentistry/ [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/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com [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!

The Courage to Be Becoming: M. Rowan Nowak on Poetry, Healing, and Finding Your Voice

In this heartfelt and deeply reflective episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with poet and author M. Rowan Nowak, whose books We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living explore healing, identity, grief, growth, and the quiet courage of becoming yourself. Meredith shares how poetry first entered her life after 9/11, when she wrote her first poem in fourth grade as a way to process fear and confusion she could not yet explain. Over the years, writing became a private refuge—a place to explore emotions, experiences, and truths she struggled to say out loud. Through vulnerable honesty, Meredith discusses overcoming fear of being seen, publishing her work for the first time, and learning that creativity does not need to come from perfection or performance. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is not linear, that becoming is sacred, and that our voices matter exactly as they are. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to M. Rowan Nowak and her poetry collections * (01:29) Writing her first poem after 9/11 as a fourth grader * (02:38) Using poetry as a private way to process emotions * (03:30) Returning to poetry in eighth grade with "Bringing America Home" * (04:28) The themes behind We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living * (06:06) How writing helped Meredith redefine self-worth and identity * (07:11) Publishing during a season of personal uncertainty and job loss * (08:04) Sharing poetry publicly for the first time on Facebook * (09:24) Readers responding emotionally and sharing their own stories * (09:49) Influences like Maya Angelou and learning through lived experience * (10:55) Realizing her poetry was creating genuine human connection * (11:53) Overcoming fear, anxiety, and imposter syndrome through publishing * (13:47) Self-talk centered around honesty and continuing to show up * (14:53) Holding her first printed book and stepping out of hiding * (15:48) Support from her husband, family, and growing community * (17:03) Reading from her poem "Imposter Syndrome" * (19:10) Advice for women learning who they are becoming * (21:02) Encouragement for aspiring writers to trust their own voice * (22:15) Favorite quote about beginnings quietly forming * (26:04) Previewing upcoming books and future writing projects Notable Quotes: * "Writing gave me a place to be very honest." * "I'm scared, but I'm tired of hiding." * "I don't have to be fearless or perfect to be faithful to what matters." * "Sometimes that's all courage really is—just showing up for yourself day after day." * "It's okay to still be becoming." * "Becoming is not a lesser chapter, it's a sacred one." Takeaways: * Creativity can become a powerful tool for healing and self-understanding. * Vulnerability often creates the deepest human connection. * Your worth is not determined by productivity or performance. * Fear of being seen can be overcome one honest step at a time. * Becoming yourself is an ongoing journey, not a final destination. * Writers should trust their authentic voice instead of comparing themselves to others. * Healing and growth can coexist with uncertainty and imperfection. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.mrowannowak.com/ [https://www.mrowannowak.com/] • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m.rowannowak/ [https://www.instagram.com/m.rowannowak/] @m.rowannowak • Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/M-Rowan-Nowak/author/B0GQ6396WJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1779800610&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c936d04b-604a-4a4f-8593-8de87295d114 [https://www.amazon.com/stores/M-Rowan-Nowak/author/B0GQ6396WJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1779800610&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c936d04b-604a-4a4f-8593-8de87295d114] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [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!

Turning Passion Into Purpose: Kristina Hughes on Hustle, Innovation, and Building Frame Your Feline

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Kristina Hughes, founder of Frame Your Feline, to talk about entrepreneurship, creativity, resilience, and the power of reinvention. Kristina shares her incredible journey from actress, comedian, and pageant competitor to becoming a successful serial entrepreneur. Alongside her husband Brian, she created Frame Your Feline—a modern cat shelf system designed to combine feline enrichment with beautiful home décor. What started as a creative solution for their own cats evolved into an innovative company featured on Shark Tank and embraced by cat lovers around the world. Throughout the conversation, Kristina opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, overcoming manufacturing challenges, learning to hustle through rejection, and the importance of taking bold action even when the outcome is uncertain. Her story is a reminder that dreams are built step by step through persistence, creativity, and courage. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to Kristina Hughes and Frame Your Feline * (01:27) Continuing forward after Shark Tank without a deal * (02:27) Kristina's background as a performer, entrepreneur, and business owner * (03:15) Learning hustle and entrepreneurship through acting and promotional work * (04:08) Creating Holden Log and Performer Track for entertainers * (06:34) The inspiration behind Frame Your Feline * (07:31) Early childhood lessons about hard work and competition * (08:47) Winning a school reading competition and discovering personal drive * (10:06) Moving to Los Angeles with $800 and chasing her dream * (13:56) Developing the first Frame Your Feline prototype during COVID * (17:58) The moment they realized the product was truly special * (19:52) Major manufacturing challenges and overcoming setbacks * (23:16) Self-talk, mantras, and the importance of personal growth * (25:03) Receiving the call from Shark Tank after submitting online * (27:58) Celebrating success even without securing a Shark Tank deal * (29:20) Rescue work helping cats and dogs find homes * (34:33) Kristina's advice for entrepreneurs: "Be bold." * (35:33) The importance of taking targeted action daily Notable Quotes: * "We turn your cat into a living meowster piece." * "Deal or no deal, we're always moving forward." * "You have to run your business like a business." * "Every day and every way I am better and better." * "Be bold." * "If you stay at home and you don't do anything, you're not going to go anywhere." Takeaways: * Entrepreneurship often begins long before a business officially launches. * Rejection and setbacks are part of the process, not the end of the journey. * Innovation often comes from solving personal problems creatively. * Taking bold action creates opportunities that waiting never will. * Building a successful company requires adaptability and persistence. * Community, mentorship, and learning from others are essential for growth. * Success should be celebrated, even when outcomes don't look exactly as planned. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.frameyourfeline.com/ [https://www.frameyourfeline.com/] • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frameyourfeline/ [https://www.instagram.com/frameyourfeline/] @frameyourfeline • Email: kristina@frameyourfeline.com Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [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!

Building a Dream Through Dance and Community: Caitlin Brozna-Smith on Culture, Courage, and Connection

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Caitlin Brozna-Smith, founder of Bella Diva World Dance in Denver, Colorado—a thriving dance studio built on culture, connection, and community. Caitlin shares her journey from a young girl choreographing dances in her imagination to traveling the world and discovering a deep passion for international dance. What began as a small dream in a rented studio space in 2010 has grown into a vibrant, 6,000+ square foot dance community that celebrates cultures from around the globe with authenticity and integrity. Through moments of uncertainty, financial pressure, and personal growth, Caitlin stayed committed to her vision—creating not just a business, but a space where women can connect, heal, and express themselves. This episode is a powerful reminder that building a dream takes patience, courage, and the willingness to grow alongside it. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to Caitlin Brozna-Smith and Bella Diva World Dance * (01:15) Starting Bella Diva in 2010 with rented studio space * (02:36) Building a team to represent global dance styles authentically * (03:52) Early love of dance and choreographing as a child * (04:36) Life-changing study abroad experience traveling the world * (06:50) Beginning her world dance journey after returning home * (07:25) Creating a "dance family" rooted in community * (08:23) Challenges of balancing artistry with running a business * (09:00) Personal growth through empathy, compassion, and cultural awareness * (09:59) Major milestone: opening her first dedicated studio space * (10:56) Performing in Brazil's Carnaval and embracing humility * (12:42) Empowering others and building future leaders within her studio * (15:54) Expanding into a larger studio space and realizing a major dream * (17:09) Self-talk: allowing rest and trusting the process * (19:47) The importance of family support and community values * (21:10) Advice for young women to pursue their passions despite fear * (22:43) Starting small and growing a dream over time * (24:30) The importance of allowing space for both struggle and positivity * (30:09) Acknowledging that success is built through community, not alone Notable Quotes: * "Steps without the meaning and the history are just that." * "I never thought of it as being a transactional business." * "It wasn't easy, so I needed the passion." * "It's okay to rest." * "You can't just do everything you want all at once." * "No one is an island, and we do this together." Takeaways: * Passion is essential when building something through challenges. * Cultural understanding and authenticity create deeper connection and meaning. * Dreams often start small and grow over time with patience and persistence. * Community is a powerful force in building and sustaining success. * Rest and self-care are necessary for long-term sustainability. * Success is rarely achieved alone—it requires support and collaboration. * Taking risks, even when uncertain, is key to creating meaningful impact. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://belladivadance.com/ [https://belladivadance.com/] • Instagram: @BellaDivaWorldDance Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [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!

Following Your Heart at Every Stage: Dr. Camilla Buchanan on Medicine, Courage, and Living Life Fully

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Camilla Buchanan, a trailblazing OB-GYN, championship cyclist, and lifelong learner whose journey is anything but traditional. From starting her career as a school teacher to becoming one of the first women with children admitted to medical school, Dr. Buchanan shares how her path into medicine was not planned—but discovered through life experiences, curiosity, and bold action. Along the way, she built a successful medical practice, formed deep connections with her patients, and embraced opportunities that allowed her to grow both professionally and personally. Her story doesn't stop there. From competitive cycling later in life to making life-altering personal decisions rooted in authenticity, Dr. Buchanan demonstrates what it truly means to follow your heart—even when it challenges expectations. This episode is a powerful reminder that dreams evolve, courage matters, and the most meaningful life is one lived on your own terms. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:02) Introduction to Dr. Camilla Buchanan and her achievements in medicine and cycling * (01:28) Being the first woman with children admitted to the Medical College of Virginia * (02:10) Early career path as a chemistry major and school teacher * (03:05) Life-changing experience teaching before integration * (04:02) Decision to pursue medical school while living in Okinawa * (05:43) Taking initiative and writing medical schools to secure interviews * (06:23) The demanding journey of medical school and balancing family life * (07:16) The realities and sacrifices of medical training * (08:37) Discovering the deep meaning of being a physician * (09:46) Finding purpose in gynecologic oncology and patient care * (11:11) Proving herself academically and succeeding at the top of her class * (12:25) Gaining confidence in the operating room and discovering surgical talent * (13:30) Navigating challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field * (16:25) Choosing to retire at the right moment * (17:06) Starting competitive cycling later in life and achieving national and world success * (20:44) A pivotal life decision to follow her heart and embrace authenticity * (24:50) Advice for young women on recognizing and developing their talents * (28:21) The impact of Girl Scouts and outdoor experiences on self-confidence Notable Quotes: * "I'll just go to medical school." * "There's always a price to pay." * "You just had to hold your own." * "You can either retire too late or too early." * "I have to follow my heart." * "If you're happy yourself, then you can make other people happy." Takeaways: * Dreams don't always start early—they often evolve through life experiences. * Taking initiative and advocating for yourself can open unexpected doors. * Success often comes with sacrifice, especially when balancing career and family. * Confidence is built through competence and persistence over time. * Following your heart may require difficult choices, but it leads to authenticity. * Physical activity and personal challenges can build lifelong confidence. * Understanding and using your unique talents is key to building a meaningful life. Connect with Guest: • Instagram: No Link • Additional Links: No Link Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [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!