Horton Hangout Podcast for Dental Professionals!

Guest Pod - Changing Thousands of Lives and the Squid Game Marketing Disaster with Shaz Memon

📝 Show Notes

In this powerful season finale, we sit down with Shaz Memon—entrepreneur, creative thinker, and founder of a life-changing global initiative that started with a single idea… and grew into something far bigger than anyone expected.

What began as frustration with traditional charity giving turned into a mission that’s now helping thousands of girls access education, simply by solving one overlooked problem: access to water.

But this episode goes far beyond charity.

We dive into:

• The moment that changed everything (and why giving didn’t feel right before it
• How a simple “what if?” idea turned into global impact
• The truth about personal branding (and what people really buy into)
• Why most people fail to execute ideas—and how to break that pattern
• The power of visualisation and finishing what you start
• Creative marketing stories that went viral… and one that ended with the police being called 😳

This conversation is honest, funny, emotional—and packed with insights for anyone building a business, a brand, or a life with purpose.

💡 If you’ve ever felt stuck between success and meaning… this one will stay with you.

Links

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Digimax https://www.digimax.co.uk/

Shaz instagram https://www.instagram.com/shaz.memon/

No Water Land the movie

https://www.primevideo.com/detail/No-Water-Land/0TEXB8S966ZKY1GIXUZT5XK62A

Episode 8 - Burnout, Communication Mistakes & Confessions

In this penultimate episode of the season, Laura and Leanna dive into a mix of serious industry insight and the chaotic humour that the Horton Hangout podcast has become known for.

The episode begins with an important listener question about practice manager burnout in busy dental clinics. Laura shares her experience managing multiple practices and explains why burnout happens, how leadership structures affect it, and practical steps owners can take to support their teams.

The conversation then shifts to communication mistakes in dentistry, including filler words like “just”, “quickly”, and “obviously” that can weaken patient conversations. Laura explains how clearer language improves patient confidence and treatment acceptance.

Finally, the episode finishes with the fan-favourite Confessions of a Dental Nurse segment – including some truly unforgettable (and hilarious) dental surgery moments.

This episode is the perfect mix of real dental practice advice, communication training, and unfiltered dental team stories.

If you enjoy the podcast, don’t forget to send in your confessions, banned words, and questions for the next season.

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

 

Episode 7 - Paying the ARF for your team, Deep Cleans, and Dental Confessions

In Episode 7 of The Horton Hangout Podcast, Laura and Leanna dive into a mix of real-life conversations from the dental world — from perimenopause and hormones to communication mistakes in dentistry and the importance of clear patient education.

The episode explores whether practices should pay dental nurses’ GDC retention fees, why the phrase “deep clean” might be one of dentistry’s most misleading terms, and how better communication can transform patient understanding and treatment acceptance.

Along the way the conversation takes a few hilarious detours — including mindset, positive thinking, podcast habits, and one unforgettable dental confession.

If you work in dentistry, practice management, or treatment coordination, this episode blends practical insight with the kind of honest conversation you only get in the Horton Hangout.

 

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Joe’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joelovettcatalyst

Guest Pod - Confessions of a Sales Rep: Game of Death and love Bombing, Joe Lovett hangs out with us

In this guest episode of The Horton Hangout Podcast, Laura and Leanna are joined by the unapologetically unfiltered Joe Lovett — founder of Catalyst Sales & Marketing.

What starts as light nostalgia (dad’s suit, corporate conferences and early FMC days) quickly spirals into:

• “The Game of Death” after an all-you-can-eat Indian
• Nearly calling the police on intense dating app encounters
• Sliding into Outlook inboxes in the most unromantic way possible
• The truth about associates building personal brands
• LinkedIn “philanthropists”
• Shanghai vs Chicago
• Authenticity in business
• And a surprisingly heartfelt ending about fatherhood and love

It’s chaotic. It’s honest. It’s very Horton Hangout.

And yes… there’s a confession.

 

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Joe’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joelovettcatalyst

Episode 6 - Is this normal?

In Episode 6, the team dive into the very real mental load of parenting, preparation, and control — the habits we form “just in case” something goes wrong. From washing school uniforms early to emergency car kits and travel rituals, the conversation quickly turns into a relatable exploration of modern anxiety and organisation.

They also tackle the hot topic of mobile phones in schools, why banning smartphones could actually support children’s wellbeing, and how screen culture is shaping behaviour at home and in classrooms.

Plus, there’s a practical deep dive into using AI and free digital tools to streamline systems for Treatment Coordinators and practice teams — without expensive subscriptions.

And finally… a genuinely unsettling Confessions of a Practice Manager that no one sees coming.

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

📌 Show Notes

In this episode, we cover:

• The “just in case” habits parents develop (and why we do them)
• Parenting anxiety, organisation, and mental load
• Travel rituals, car safety kits, and comfort routines
• Why Sundays feel stressful when uniforms aren’t done
• Ironing… yes, even the pants
• Should mobile phones be banned in schools?
• The emotional impact of smartphones, WhatsApp groups, and doom-scrolling on children
• How childhood friendships have changed in the digital age
• Managing screen time with YouTube, gaming, and educational alternatives
• Reframing dental language: why “therapy” works better than “treatment”
• Digital tools for TCOs and practice teams, including:
• Why starting with free tools is often the smartest move
• Confessions of a Practice Manager: an aggressive stranger, a glass-fronted practice, and a moment that still has no explanation

⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to Episode 6
01:00 – “Just in case” parenting habits & travel routines
04:40 – Comfort rituals, Costa stops & car safety kits
08:40 – Uniforms, ironing & mental load
11:45 – Banning mobile phones in schools
14:20 – Screen time, doom-scrolling & childhood changes
19:15 – Banned words: “Root Canal Therapy”
23:15 – AI & digital tools for TCOs and practices
29:50 – Confessions of a Practice Manager
32:55 – Wrap-up & thanks

Episode 5 - Practice Management Reality Checks, “Are you taking NHS?” And Payment Plans.

In this episode, Laura and Leanna dive into some of the most real and pressing challenges facing dental practices right now.

They unpack the upcoming FCA changes to in-house payment plans, why unregulated credit is risky (and unethical), and what practices need to do now to stay compliant.

The conversation then turns emotional, as the hosts respond to a heartfelt message from a newly appointed practice manager who feels overwhelmed, unsupported, and close to giving up. Their advice is honest, compassionate, and practical — especially for anyone who’s stepped into leadership without proper induction or training.

You’ll also hear:

• Why regular team meetings are non-negotiable
• How better communication can transform practice culture
• A brilliant front-of-house script for handling “Are you NHS?” calls
• A reminder that kindness on the phone builds reputation (even when patients don’t convert)
• Plus… a very funny dental nurse confession involving locker pranks and smelly food 😅

Practical, emotional, and laugh-out-loud in places — this is an episode every dental team should hear.

Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for general discussion and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or regulatory advice. FCA regulations and requirements can vary depending on individual circumstances. We strongly recommend that listeners consult a suitably qualified professional listed on the FCA Register for tailored advice and clarification relevant to their own practice.

Show Notes

In this episode, we cover:

• Upcoming FCA legislation and why in-house payment plans must stop
• The risks of unregulated credit in dental practices
• Why finance options protect both patients and teams
• A shocking real-world story of a payment dispute gone wrong
• How money conversations damage patient relationships
• The importance of clear communication and team meetings
• Supporting new practice managers properly (induction matters!)
• Advice for PMs feeling overwhelmed, embarrassed, or stuck
• Why secondments (“comments”) should be normal in dentistry
• Transitioning from nurse to practice manager — and why it’s hard
• Front desk phone skills: handling NHS vs private enquiries
• Why being helpful (even when you can’t help) builds trust
• Banned words on reception and what to say instead
• Confessions of a Dental Nurse: locker pranks gone too far

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome & catching up
 01:10 – Consultation clinic & accountability check-ins
 02:00 – FCA changes to payment plans explained
 03:00 – Why in-house credit is risky and unethical
 04:05 – A real story of payment defaults in practice
 05:00 – When payment conversations turn threatening
 07:30 – Why practices must remove money stress altogether
 08:10 – Deadline for FCA compliance (May changes)
 09:00 – Why chasing payments damages patient relationships
 10:25 – The importance of team communication & meetings
 11:30 – How regular meetings create strong practice culture
 14:10 – Hang Out Question: struggling new practice manager
 15:00 – Why this isn’t about ability — it’s about support
 17:30 – How to approach your boss for help and clarity
 18:50 – Why you shouldn’t quit too soon
 19:10 – Secondments (“comments”) and trialing leadership roles
 20:45 – Transitioning from nurse to practice manager
 22:00 – Banned Words: “Are you NHS?” phone calls
 23:40 – A better script for NHS vs private enquiries
 26:00 – Why kindness on the phone builds reputation
 31:10 – Confessions of a Dental Nurse 🫣
 35:20 – Wrap-up, reviews & sharing the podcast

Show notes links

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Guest Pod - Payman on Identity, Ambition, and Building a Life on Your Own Terms

In this episode, we sit down with Payman for an open and reflective conversation about identity, ambition, and the experiences that shape who we become.

Payman shares his personal journey — from early influences and internal struggles to the hard lessons learned through work, responsibility, and self-reflection. We explore what it really means to grow up, take ownership of your decisions, and build a life guided by values rather than external expectations.

This is a thoughtful, honest discussion about discipline, self-belief, relationships, and the quiet moments that often define success more than the loud ones.

Whether you’re navigating your own path, questioning your direction, or looking for grounded perspective, this conversation offers insight you can apply immediately.

In this episode, we cover:

• Payman’s background and early influences
• Navigating identity, pressure, and expectations
• The difference between external success and internal fulfilment
• Learning responsibility through failure and accountability
• Discipline, consistency, and long-term thinking
• The role of self-belief in personal and professional growth
• Relationships, boundaries, and personal values
• Advice for people figuring out their next chapter
• Reflections on purpose, meaning, and the future

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Payman’s instagram https://www.instagram.com/paymanlangroudi/

Enlighten https://www.enlightensmiles.com/

Mini Smile Makeover https://dentist.minismilemakeover.com/

Dental Leaders podcast https://www.dentalleaders.co.uk/

Dental leaders instagram https://www.instagram.com/dentalleaderspodcast/

Episode 4 - The Cooking Prenup, Career Glow-Ups & The Energy Drink Debate

Cooking chaos, dental career growth, caffeine controversies and the most committed dental prank you’ve ever heard — Episode 4 delivers it all.

In this lively episode of the Horton Hangout, Laura and Leanna jump between kitchen disasters, career progression in dentistry, caffeine culture, patient communication upgrades, and a truly iconic prank confession.

They kick things off with the now-infamous “lasagna weekend,” exploring the emotional load of cooking, relationship dynamics in the kitchen, and why slow cookers might be the real MVPs of adulthood. Then a brilliant listener question leads into an honest discussion about dental nurse development — radiography, OHE, sedation courses, CPD choices, and how to make sure your qualifications actually get used.

From there, the girls plunge into the debate around energy drink age restrictions, looking at caffeine addiction, teenage access, health concerns and whether energy drinks should become 18+. It gets passionate… and slightly chocolate-fuelled.

Today’s Banned Word sparks a powerful mindset shift, and how one positive word can transform treatment conversations, patient reassurance and appointment booking confidence.

And finally, the confession of the week takes centre stage. It’s outrageous, harmless, hilarious — and exactly why Confessions is a fan favourite.

It’s fun, relatable, educational and packed with practical gems for dental teams.

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Episode 3 - Reception Realities & Confessions: Training, Team Challenges & Hilarious Mishaps

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of managing a long-standing reception team and the importance of proper training, documenting mistakes, and building confidence in your staff. Our hosts discuss real-life scenarios from busy dental practices, highlighting the struggles and successes of team development.

We also share some hilarious and cringe-worthy Confessions of a Dental Nurse, including the dreaded office fridge and microwave disasters—proving that every workplace has its unique challenges and memorable moments.

Whether you’re a practice manager, a receptionist, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode is packed with insights, laughter, and practical advice for improving team efficiency while keeping morale high.

Highlights include:

• How to approach training and documenting mistakes in long-term teams.
• Understanding the “skills gap” and giving your staff every opportunity to grow.
• Corporate examples of top-tier customer service training and how it applies to smaller practices.
• Empathy vs. standards: Balancing support and expectations for reception staff.
• Confessions of office mishaps, including the chaos of shared fridges and microwaves.
• Tips for creating a positive work environment even during high-pressure situations.

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/   

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

Guest Pod - Mindset, Money & The Truth About Leadership with our first co-host Dr Ashish B Parmar

In this combined  guest + cohost edition, you’ll learn:

• The surprising true history of the TCO role in the UK
• Why mindset work is essential for team success
• How to connect with patients on a “soul level”
• What really happens when a team grows too fast
• The emotional truth behind resentment, bonuses & fairness
• How to build a culture that actually works
• Why gratitude matters more than perks
• How spiritual practice and routine can change your leadership
• The power of meditation, chanting, walk routines & stillness
• Why investing in staff is never wasted — even if they leave
• How to separate genuine growth from toxic positivity
• The banned words that always make their way in
• AND…the confessions you didn’t see coming

Send in your confessions, questions and watch the podcast here https://www.horton-consulting.com/horton-hangout-podcast/    

Horton Consulting website https://www.horton-consulting.com/

About us https://www.horton-consulting.com/abo...

Laura’s instagram  https://www.instagram.com/laurahorton1/

Horton Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hortonconsulting

Horton Consulting YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HortonConsulting

Laura Horton Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurahorton/

Laura Horton Tik Tok  https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahortonconsult

Leanna Best Linkedin  https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanna-best-042376121/

Leanna Best Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leanna_TCO_coach

The Academy by Ash https://theacademybyash.co.uk/

Dr Ashish Parmar Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ashparmardentist/

 

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to the Horton Hangout special guest episode
 00:11 – Introducing Dr. Ash Parmer + today’s confession teaser
 00:24 – Ash joins the co-host seat
 00:34 – What’s coming up: confessions, banned words & Horton Hangout question
 00:51 – Laura & Ash: 21 years of history
 03:04 – Opening practice number four
 03:45 – The real history of treatment coordination
 07:28 – Mindset, development & wanting more
 08:27 – Full circle moment bringing Leanna into the mix
 09:10 – Decks, training & course season chaos
 09:34 – Ash balancing clinical work with teaching
 09:56 – The iconic 8-day aesthetic course
 10:13 – Why dentists thrive on hands-on dentistry
 10:30 – New holistic retreat for dentists
 10:57 – Purpose, mindfulness & wellbeing
 15:11 – Why owners & PMs need mindset awareness
 16:42 – How connection drives treatment acceptance
18:08 – Spirituality vs religion & becoming your best self
31:26 – The team bonus system explained
38:20 – Horton Hangout Question: What makes your team feel valued?
39:59 – Investing in staff even if they leave
40:22 – The emotional mistake leaders make
43:43 – Handling objections with confidence
44:00 – Spirituality and leadership
44:22 – Balancing clinical and personal growth
44:47 – Krishna consciousness & mindful routines
45:06 – 4:30am mornings: chanting & meditation
45:55 – Letting go brings bigger cases naturally
46:34 – Trusting the process