Shows
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaDentist, Model & Influencer: From 'Bugs Bunny' to 100K Followers with Dr Rohini BisaalWhat happens when childhood bullying leads to a life-changing transformation that sparks an entire career? Meet Dr Rohini Bisaal - a dentist, former model, and social media influencer with over 100K followers who proves that our greatest challenges can become our greatest purpose.In this inspiring episode, Dr Bisaal shares how being called "Bugs Bunny" and bullied at school led her to get braces - a transformation so profound it redirected her entire life toward dentistry. But her story doesn't stop there. During dental school, she pursued modeling as a side hustle, and those photos are still...2025-07-311h 02
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaProf Dilip Garach: From Apartheid Barriers to Building Wealth - A CA's JourneyWhat does it take to break through systemic barriers and build lasting wealth? Prof Dilip Garach shares his remarkable journey from being thrown out of university registration for refusing to wear a tie, to becoming South Africa's Financial Planner of the Year.In this candid conversation, Prof Garach reveals why most professionals - including doctors and dentists - struggle to build real wealth despite high incomes. He shares invaluable insights on tax planning, wealth preservation, and the critical mistakes healthcare professionals make with money.Episode Highlights:The untold story of Indian professionals...2025-07-161h 26
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaDr Hooman Eshraghi: Foot & Ankle Surgeon and Proud South African“South Africa is my home. I’ve lived here for 30 years..."In this episode, Dr Yash Naidoo and Dr Yak Lindy sit down with orthopaedic surgeon Dr Hooman Eshraghi for a conversation that blends surgical precision with deep personal reflection.Dr Eshraghi shares the moment he fell in love with orthopaedics, how mentorship shaped his career, and why he’s proud to call South Africa home.From padel injuries and parenting to Persian identity and accidental Discovery Vitality adverts — this is a story about community, humility, and belonging.If you’ve ever wonde...2025-06-231h 26
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaMy Father-in-Law, the Doctor – A Conversation with Dr Gitesh RampersadhIn this special episode of Why Did I Become a Doctor, host Dr Yash Naidoo sits down with someone who has quietly shaped his life and inspired countless others — his father-in-law, Dr Gitesh Rampersadh.A specialist gynaecologist and former obstetrician, Dr Rampersadh speaks with rare humility about the early days of private practice, the strain it placed on his young family, and the financial pressures and difficult decisions behind the scenes.This isn’t just a look back — it’s a message forward. He shares what patients often don’t see, what young doctors should know, and...2025-06-061h 56
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaSandton Smile, Global Voice – Dr Mark Wertheimer on Orthodontics, Ethics & LeadershipIn this episode, Dr Yash Naidoo speaks to one of South Africa’s most respected orthodontists — Dr Mark Wertheimer.They explore:• His path from childhood dental fear to global orthodontic leadership• The realities of specialist training in South Africa• The ethical crossroads facing modern dentistry• Leadership insights from SASO, SADA, and beyond• How commercial pressures are reshaping patient careIt’s a candid, thoughtful, and often humorous conversation that reveals what really lies behind the clinical smile — from Sandton to the world.🎙️ Why Did I Become A Doctor s...2025-05-262h 09
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaThe CEO Who Left Medical School – KC Makhubele’s Journey from Matiyani to National LeadershipKC Makhubele never became a doctor — but today, he leads the doctors and dentists of South Africa.In this episode, KC sits down with Dr Yash Naidoo and Dr Yak Lindy to reflect on the journey that took him from herding cattle in Matiyani village, to studying medicine at UCT, to ultimately becoming CEO of the South African Dental Association (SADA).KC speaks candidly about leadership, failure, faith, and finding his purpose — even when the plan didn’t go according to script. 🎧 Expect real stories, raw moments, and reflec...2025-05-112h 18
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaFrom Public Health to Private Jets: Dr Neeraj Mistry on Ego, Power, and InfluenceFrom grassroots public health to flying on private jets with Bollywood royalty — Dr Neeraj Mistry has lived a life of extraordinary contrasts.In this wide-ranging conversation with Dr Yash Naidoo and co-host Dr Yak Lindy, he shares candid insights on ego, masculinity, influence, privilege, and the realities of changing systems from within.From early lessons at men’s health clinics to strategic communications in Washington D.C., Dr Mistry’s journey reveals what it really takes to move people, policies, and perceptions.🎙️ Topics covered:• Global Health Leadership• Masculinity and Men’s Health2025-05-032h 13
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaElton Lau’s Wake-Up Call: What Healthcare & Business Must Learn About Life, Leadership & GrowthIf your boss controls your future, you’ve already given too much away.In this powerful and emotional episode, Elton Lau joins Dr Yash Naidoo and Dr Yak Lindy for an honest conversation about leadership, mindset, and breaking out of toxic career patterns.Elton shares the defining moments that shaped his worldview — from early realisations about fear and power, to building a business grounded in values.🎓 Learn more about Meta You, Elton’s SAMA-accredited CPD ethics course that helps healthcare professionals rethink identity, purpose...2025-04-101h 41
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaThe Face You Know, The Story You Don’t – Dr Avi JagathpalThe face you know. The story you don’t.Dr Avish Jay Jagathpal is a well-known prosthodontist in South Africa — and internationally. But behind his clinical success is a personal journey shaped by childhood joys, trauma, and a few stories he’s only ever shared with those closest to him... until now.🎙️ In this deeply personal episode, we talk about:Childhood memories that shaped his worldviewA journey marked by student excellenceFounding and growing Capital ProsthodonticsBurnout, mentorship, and rediscovering purposeHis hopes for the future of dentistry in South Africa💬 “Oh man, I got death threat...2025-03-312h 39
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaReflections: 10 Episodes, Lessons Learned, and What's NextIn this episode of "Why Did I Become a Doctor South Africa," Yash goes solo, sharing personal reflections and meaningful insights gained after recording the first ten episodes of the podcast. From memorable guests to impactful stories, he discusses how these conversations have shaped his understanding of medicine, dentistry, and life in healthcare. Whether you're new to the podcast or a long-time listener, this reflection provides a deeper understanding of the mission behind the show and a glimpse into future directions.Join Yash for an introspective episode as he walks, talks, and reflects—bringing you closer to th...2025-03-1640 min
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaFrom Umlazi to the UK to the USA: Dr Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson - The Ubuntu Doctor CoachWe sit down with the remarkable Dr Nondumiso Makhunga-Stevenson, a medical doctor who has worked across South Africa, the UK, and the US. Dr Makhunga-Stevenson shares her journey from growing up in Umlazi, Durban, to navigating the challenges of private practice, working with one of the big five pharmaceutical companies, and maintaining strong community ties along the way. We discuss the power of mentorship, the importance of cultural understanding in healthcare, and what keeps her grounded after years of international experience.Dr Makhunga-Stevenson is also a certified coach who helps doctors and healthcare professionals reconnect with their...2025-02-281h 51
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaBlack, Gay & Almost a Vet! From Humble Beginnings to Living the Good Life with Dr Leero MajorityFrom almost becoming a veterinarian to carving out a career in healthcare, Dr Leero Majority’s journey has been anything but conventional. In this raw and honest conversation, he opens up about his humble beginnings, his experiences as a Black gay man in South Africa, and the struggles and triumphs of working in a demanding profession.🔹 The Call That Changed His Life – How a last-minute phone call pulled him out of vet school and set him on an entirely different path.🔹 Surviving University Life –...2025-02-012h 08
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaBecoming a Dentist in South Africa - Dr Günther Streit - From "Poverty" to Olympic Dreams to PhDIn this episode of Why Did I Become a Doctor South Africa, Dr Yash Naidoo interviews his dental school classmate and friend, Dr Günther Streit. As the first German speaker and first Namibian guest on the podcast, Dr Streit shares his extraordinary journey from facing early financial constraints to considering leaving clinical practice, only to thrive in dentistry through postgraduate education and diverse experiences.The discussion covers:The financial and personal challenges he overcame on his journey 🎓The struggles and intense demands of dental school 🏥The challenges that almost led him awa...2025-01-201h 52
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaThe Engineer Driving a New Car Weekly - Amith Gosai on Blogs, Business & Reeva Steenkamp’s KindnessThis episode is a bit different—our guest isn’t a healthcare worker, but his story is equally inspiring!Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of Amith Gosai (@amg133), the engineer and automotive enthusiast who drives a new car every week! 🚗✨In this episode, Amith shares:His journey from engineering to becoming a top automotive blogger.The story behind his blog, The Bucket, and what inspires his unique content.Partying with FHM fashion models.How one of his posts "went viral... for the wrong reasons though" and was featured on CNN.The lesso...2025-01-051h 15
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaThe Shortest Surgeon in South Africa (Maybe?) – Dr Thegesha Naidoo on Grief, Guts, and GallbladdersDr Yash Naidoo sits down with someone very close to him, Dr Thegesha Naidoo—possibly South Africa’s shortest surgeon—to explore her remarkable journey from pharmacy school and studying medicine abroad to thriving in the operating room. They dive into high-pressure hospital dynamics, from coping with the first patient lost on the table to answering listener questions on doctor-nurse tensions and surgical mistakes. Dr Naidoo also opens up about why she chose surgery, how she found her footing in both public and private practice, and the emotional toll of life-and-death decisions. Whether you’re curious about the inner workings...2024-12-221h 25
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaFrom Zimbabwe to Mzansi: Sister Letmore Chigudu's Inspiring Path From Nursing to Advising DoctorsIn this powerful and heartfelt episode, Sister Letmore Chigudu, a dedicated nurse and healthcare professional, shares her incredible journey from growing up in Harare, Zimbabwe, to building a thriving career in South Africa.Born into a humble family, with her father working as a security guard and her mother as a general worker, Sister Letmore’s story is a testament to perseverance and the belief that your circumstances do not define your future. Through determination, resilience, and the power of prayer, she carved out a remarkable career in healthcare.Discover how Sister Letmore, who never in...2024-12-011h 18
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaDr Que Njotini - A Rising Star Who Will Empower Young Women & Transform Oral Health In South Africa🎙️ Welcome back to Why Did I Become a Doctor South AfricaIn this episode, we sit down with Dr Qaqamba Njotini, affectionately known as Dr Que, a passionate and driven young dentist who shares her incredible journey from small-town roots to navigating the challenges of dental school, public healthcare, and beyond.✨ What You'll Hear in This Episode:Dr Que’s upbringing in the Eastern Cape and her path to discovering her passion for dentistry.Her inspiring story of resilience, including overcoming rejections and transferr...2024-11-1857 min
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaBecoming A Surgeon In South Africa: The "Black Boer" From Botswana - Dr Caiphus GofhamodimoJoin us as Dr Caiphus Gofhamodimo recounts his path from Botswana to the surgical field in South Africa. We explore his early days, medical school memories, his disciplined training, and his transition to private practice. Caiphus reflects on the sacrifices of a medical career, balancing family life, and the deep trust-building needed in private practice. He also explains why he calls himself the "Black Boer". This is an honest look at the dedication, resilience, and love required in medicine.🎙️ Why Did I Become A Doctor shares honest, unscripted conversations with doctors, dentists, healthcare professionals, and other inspiring indiv...2024-10-271h 18
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaThe Dentist Who Climbed Everest - Dr Yak LindyIn this special episode, I sit down with my first cousin, Dr Yak Lindy, for an intimate and inspiring conversation. From our shared childhood memories to deep reflections on life, we explore his journey from studying engineering to becoming a dentist and his incredible experience climbing Mount Everest 🏔️We also talk about what draws people to dentistry and the thoughtful advice Yak would give to anyone considering a career in the field. Whether you’re seeking insight into the profession or just enjoying a heartfelt conversation between cousins, this episode is packed with inspiration and “wisdom”.🎙️ Why Di...2024-10-131h 57
Why Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaEpisode 1 - Why Did I Start This Podcast?Welcome to the first episode of “Why Did I Become a Doctor South Africa.” In this 15-minute introduction, I share what inspired me to create this podcast and what I hope to achieve through it. The podcast aims to bring authentic, unscripted conversations with doctors, dentists, and other healthcare professionals, exploring their personal journeys and the passions that drive them.Originally, this episode was meant to be an interview with Dr. Yak Lindy, my cousin who I call a "celebrity dentist". He's an adventurer who has climbed Mount Everest. Due to busy schedules, we couldn’t make it happ...2024-10-0713 minWhy Did I Become A Doctor South AfricaI'm starting a podcast!Want to know what this show is about? Have a listen. Spoiler alert - it's not about me.🎙️ Why Did I Become A Doctor shares honest, unscripted conversations with doctors, dentists, healthcare professionals, and other inspiring individuals who are shaping the future of healthcare and beyond. 💬 Enjoyed the episode? Please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it really helps us grow and inspire the next generation. 🔗 Connect with us: • YouTube • Instagram • Facebook • Twitter (X) • LinkedIn • Whats...2024-08-1701 min
Cusp of CoffeeHow To Not Go To Jail (As A Dentist) ft. Dr Yash Naidoo | Episode 16During this special guest episode, Johan and Uwais sit down for a conversation with Dr. Yash Naidoo, a dentist turned lawyer turned lawyer-of-dentists. Dr. Yash shares his story of going through dental school, switching careers and finding what matters along the way. We reflect on doing work that you're passionate about, finding success by accident, and knowing when something just really isn't for you.
He also provides some insights into what happens when dentists get sued, how to avoid getting in those situations and the importance of getting indemnity protection.
Hosts:
2024-08-051h 09
The Dental Protection podcastDental Mediation - patient complaints and scope of practiceWhen things go wrong, how would you deal with the clinical outcome? The way you do can mean either keeping a patient or entering into stressful mediation or otherwise. But there’s more to the story than simply “things go wrong – we’re all human”. At times we too need to question what exactly is the scope of our own professional practice is.CERTIFICATE https://protection.pub/zadenSPEAKERS Dr Alasdair McKelvie https://www.linkedin.com/in/alasdair-mckelvie-b6554780 Dr Jacobus Bernard https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobus-barnard-749714195 Dr Yash Naidoo https...2023-05-2821 minThe Dental Protection podcast[ZA] With or without indemnity?A common question many South African Dentists ask is what benefit is there form having indemnity given that SADA offers a free and voluntary “complaints resolution” service available to members of the public and Oral Health Care Practitioners. To answer this and more about the cover needed for your team also tune in. CERTIFICATE https://protection.pub/zaden FURTHER LINKS Dental Protection www.dentalprotection.orgSouth African Mediation Service https://www.sada.co.za/SPEAKERS Dr Alasdair McKelvie https://www.linkedin.com/in/alasdair-mckelvie-b6554780 Dr Jacobus Bern...2023-05-2117 minThe Dental Protection podcast[ZA] Consent: What and the WhyHow regularly do you think issues with consent manifest into patient complaints? Here to talk all things consent is once again is Dr Alasdair McKelvie, Dr Jacobus Bernard, and Dental Protection Case Manager Dr Yash Naidoo. CERTIFICATE https://protection.pub/zaden FURTHER LEARNING Webinar recording: Dentolegal Fundamentals - Consent & Shared Decision Making https://protection.pub/consentrecording SPEAKERS Dr Alasdair McKelvie https://www.linkedin.com/in/alasdair-mckelvie-b6554780 Dr Jacobus Bernard https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobus-barnard-749714195 Dr Yash Naidoo https://www.linkedin.com/in/yash-naidoo-780b5078 2023-05-1422 min
Deep Dive Podcast Powered by Atla.imS6 Bonus Bitesize | Isle of Man Indaba to South Africa | Yash NaidooWe chat to Yash about the upcoming trip to South Africa by delegates from the Isle of Man including the Island's Chief Minister.2022-10-2405 min