The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today's episode of Ask Me Anything with Dr. Mark Costes, he dives into some of the most insightful questions submitted by listeners, tackling the challenges dental practice owners face as they scale. Mark explores the most common bottleneck he sees—lack of delegation and redundancy—and shares how even highly profitable, low-overhead practices can quickly crumble without the right systems and depth on the team. He emphasizes the value of hiring great people when you find them and offers advice for empowering your leads so the practice can thrive without your constant presence. Mark also addresses how to handle delicate leadership moments—like when a key team member is struggling personally—while maintaining accountability and protecting the health of the organization. He breaks down a smart, step-by-step approach to dropping PPOs, urging dentists to avoid emotional decisions and instead rely on data, preparation, and strategic marketing to make the transition smooth. To close out the episode, Mark shares why he loves the start of a new year as a time for deep reflection and goal setting, using the Four Futures framework to reset priorities across mindset, health, relationships, and finances. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Addison Killeen takes the stage to unpack the real driver behind stronger case acceptance and smoother operations: trust. Using a practical 10-step framework, he explains how dental teams can close the loop from the very first phone call to financial discussions and follow-up scheduling by improving communication, handoffs, punctuality, treatment presentation, and team alignment.   Addison shares how credibility, reliability, intimacy, and low self-interest all shape the patient experience, while also offering actionable ideas for reducing uncertainty, creating better doctor-patient connection, standardizing language across the team, and guiding patients confidently through treatment options. This episode is a smart, systems-based look at how operational excellence and human connection work together to help more patients say yes. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes shares the remarkable journey behind the Dentalpreneur Podcast during this year's Voices of Dentistry event. He shares how a simple decision to start recording conversations transformed his business, network, and life. He reflects on the early days of dental podcasting, the explosive growth of the medium, and the long-term power of consistency after releasing more than 2,400 episodes over the last decade.   Along the way, he explains how podcasting created opportunities for speaking, sponsorships, sister companies, strategic partnerships, and unforgettable relationships with world-class guests and influential leaders. Dr. Costes also ties the conversation back to purpose, highlighting how the audience and platform he built helped fuel mission-driven work through Smile Outreach International and opened doors to create impact far beyond dentistry. This episode is a candid look at leverage, authenticity, and what can happen when you commit to showing up over and over again. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with registered dental hygienist Kristen King, founder of Dental Reveal, to discuss how phase contrast microscopy is transforming the way dental teams diagnose periodontal disease and educate patients. With nearly 30 years of clinical experience, Kristen explains how visualizing live oral biofilm helps patients understand their risk, dramatically improves case acceptance, and elevates the hygiene appointment from a routine cleaning to a powerful health consultation.  They explore the oral-systemic connection, the Bale Doneen method, and how practices can implement microscopes to grow their hygiene departments, strengthen collaboration with physicians, and deliver higher-level preventive care. Kristen also shares practical insights on training teams, choosing the right equipment, and integrating this technology into everyday workflows. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://dentalreveal.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Dr. Aaron Nicholas for a wide-ranging conversation about clinical growth, treatment plan presentation, and helping young dentists build confidence faster. Aaron shares how his own difficult startup journey shaped his passion for coaching, teaching, and creating practical CE courses that help doctors become more efficient with molar endo, surgical extractions, and day-to-day case acceptance.  Together, they break down why conviction, communication, and simple language matter so much when presenting treatment, and how reviewing "game film" of real patient interactions can dramatically improve results. They also dive into Aaron's 90 Day Practice Accelerator, his live clinical training programs, and the bigger mission behind helping dentists expand their skill sets while better serving patients. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.mondaymorningdentistry.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes Dr. Tyler Bond and Gabe Goldberg live from Voices of Dentistry. Dr. Bond shares how implementing the Yomi robotic system from Neocis has dramatically changed his implant workflow—and contributed to a tenfold increase in his practice's revenue. Gabe breaks down how the Yomi S works, from pre-op planning to real-time surgical guidance, and how AI and robotics can enhance precision, speed, and predictability for implant surgeons.   Dr. Bond dives into case selection, flapless surgery, pterygoid implants, and how the system has helped him grow his brand and attract patients from hours away. If you've ever been curious about robotic implant surgery, this episode delivers both the tech and the real-world impact. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costas welcomes back fan-favorite Dr. Paul "Nacho" Goodman for an unfiltered conversation on entrepreneurship, associate hiring, live events, and the evolving dental landscape. They dive into the realities of running multiple businesses, transitioning from clinical dentistry to CEO life, and why so many dentists wait too long to hire an associate—often creating unnecessary chaos in their practices.  Paul shares insights from Dentist Job Connect, discusses the ongoing hygienist shortage, and offers a balanced perspective on DSO and DPO "drama." The episode also highlights the power of live events, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with the right people to accelerate growth. As always, it's real talk, practical wisdom, and plenty of laughs between two seasoned dental entrepreneurs. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.dentalnachos.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Mark breaks down a straightforward way to calculate "passive income" from a dental practice by using gross revenue, overhead, and doctor comp, then welcomes CMO Share founder Ryan Gross to share a practical, experience-driven marketing framework. Ryan lays out three core buckets—internal and external brand awareness, digital and AI-driven content, and team conversion—showing how billboards, community visibility, patient testimonials, multilingual videos, and strong in-office branding can reinforce what you offer to both new and existing patients.   He explains why content (especially short-form video and FAQs) is becoming essential as Google and AI personalize search results, and why transparency around fees, financing, emergencies, and membership plans is increasingly important. The conversation closes with a deep dive into front-office performance: declining phone conversion rates, the massive impact of answering calls, how insurance questions derail scheduling, and actionable tactics Addison Killeen uses—like a simple insurance spreadsheet and practice-wide phone coverage—to keep answer rates high while using AI cautiously after hours. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES www.mycmoshare.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we're sharing a powerful live talk Dr. Mark Costes gave to the Prescott High School boys' soccer team following a tough early-season loss. In a raw, motivating message, Mark addresses the emotional aftermath of defeat and challenges the players to take radical accountability—reminding them that adversity offers a critical opportunity for self-reflection, growth, and leadership. Drawing from his own athletic background and principles of stoicism and extreme ownership, he emphasizes that true development doesn't happen when things go right—but when you choose how to respond when they don't. Mark leads the team through a simple but impactful exercise to identify personal areas of improvement and publicly commit to one key focus before the next game. From shifting mindset to supporting teammates more intentionally, this talk highlights the kind of mental resilience and character-building that transcends the scoreboard. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Erik Brenner, CFP and author of The Personal CFO Revolution, to discuss how dentists, physicians, and other high-income professionals can build a "personal CFO" framework without needing a nine-figure net worth. Erik explains how integrating investment management, tax planning, and retirement strategy under one coordinated plan mirrors the family office model traditionally reserved for the ultra-wealthy. They explore the critical difference between simply deferring taxes and truly mitigating them, why working with a fiduciary matters, and how proactive tax projections can dramatically impact long-term wealth. The conversation also covers strategies available to both practice owners and W2 earners, including oil and gas investments, solar tax credits, leveraged deductions, and opportunity zone planning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to grow income while keeping more of what they earn. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://hilltopwealthtax.com/podcast https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes chats with Dr. Tianna Hall live from the Voices of Dentistry conference. Dr. Hall shares her unconventional path from private practice burnout to a fulfilling career providing dental care in the Utah prison system. She discusses how early mentorship helped her overcome clinical fears, and how volunteer dentistry reignited her passion. From oral surgery to removable prosthetics, Dr. Hall walks us through the unique challenges—and surprising benefits—of correctional dentistry, including safety protocols, minimal overhead, and a clear work-life boundary. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we're bringing you Dr. Mark Costes' full keynote talk at KC Dental Implants and Oral Surgery, where he pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to scale a successful, profitable dental practice in today's challenging environment. Mark dives into overhead realities, burnout, leadership, culture, and how most dentists unknowingly build businesses that trap them—often earning less than they could as associates. He shares raw stories from his own journey, including the physical toll of dentistry, his "aha" moment after reaching financial success but feeling unfulfilled, and how he shifted his approach to build optionality and meaning into his career. This one is packed with hard truths, tactical insights, and the exact frameworks he uses to help hundreds of dentists systemize their practices, reclaim their time, and build wealth on their terms. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by two dynamic leaders shaping the landscape of dental continuing education—Dr. Mike DiTolla and Traci Stephenson. Mike shares stories from his 37-year dental career, his passion for fly fishing, and how technology reinvigorated his love for clinical dentistry. He also opens up about his journey from average dental student to one of the most influential educators in the industry, emphasizing authenticity and humor as his trademarks on stage.  Traci, the senior manager of event marketing at Henry Schein, gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Thrive Live, one of dentistry's most engaging and comprehensive events. From course offerings and team-focused content to top-tier entertainment and hospitality, Traci explains how Thrive Live delivers exceptional value and an unforgettable experience. This episode is equal parts insightful, hilarious, and inspiring—a true peek into the culture and people behind modern dental education. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we're sharing Dr. Mark Costes' live talk at Midwestern University, where he gives dental students an unfiltered look into life after graduation—and what it really takes to succeed. Drawing from his journey as a former owner of 16 practices and founder of multiple dental businesses, Mark delivers a fast-paced, high-impact presentation on business fundamentals, practice profitability, leadership, and personal fulfillment. He explains why most dentists in the U.S. operate with dangerously thin margins—and how to avoid becoming one of them. With real-world examples and clear, digestible math, Mark shows the difference between running a high-earning but unprofitable practice versus a lean, well-managed one. He also shares his personal story of reaching financial freedom and realizing that money alone wasn't enough—leading to the creation of the Four Futures framework, focused on mind, meaning, muscle, and money. This is the talk every dental student should hear before stepping into the real world of practice ownership. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Jake Conway breaks down the evolution every dental practice owner experiences—from clinician to owner-operator to true CEO. He explains why early success often creates a dangerous reliance on the owner's production and how that pressure can lead to burnout and resentment. Jake outlines the predictable growth path of a dental practice, including how to identify bottlenecks in hygiene, when to add providers, and how to use KPIs to drive performance without obsessing over production alone.  He also tackles the "associate paradox," showing with real numbers how bringing on an associate can actually increase profitability while freeing the owner from the chair. Finally, Jake explores the long-term vision of building a leadership team, making dentistry optional, and creating a practice that generates significant income without relying on the owner's clinical time. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast!  EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by returning guest and longtime friend of the podcast, Dr. Matthew Standridge, live from the Voices of Dentistry conference. Dr. Standridge shares his incredible journey from owning multiple rural practices in Kansas to selling them and transitioning into a career focused on education and clinical mentorship. He opens up about the unique and atypical process of selling one of his practices to a nonprofit organization pursuing FQHC status, and how that created a win-win for both the community and his personal goals.  Now living in Edmond, Oklahoma, Dr. Standridge reflects on the improved quality of life for his family and his renewed passion for teaching. He dives deep into his new online education platform, Orthodontic XP, designed to help general dentists implement clear aligner therapy confidently and effectively—especially those who feel stuck after initial certification courses. Dr. Standridge also shares key insights on team training, patient communication, and systems for case acceptance in ortho. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.drstandridge.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with M&A expert Brannon Moncrief to break down the current dental consolidation landscape and what it really means for practice owners considering a sale. They discuss why 2025 was a strong year for strategic sellers despite tighter capital markets, how deal structures have evolved from pure HoldCo models to joint venture alignments, and why organic growth now matters more than simply stacking EBITDA.  Brannon shares insights on recap realities, earn-outs versus earn-ups, and why age and runway dramatically impact leverage in negotiations. They also dive into common seller mistakes, the risks of waiting too long in a shifting consolidation cycle, and how to think critically about equity projections and "unicorn" promises. If you're planning an eventual transition—whether next year or a decade from now—this episode offers a pragmatic look at how to prepare and position yourself for the best possible outcome. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://dentaltransitions.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we're sharing a special DSN webinar featuring Dr. Mark Costes and Kyle Francis, founder of Professional Transition Strategies, titled Mastering Your Practice Valuation: What Today's Buyers Are Actually Looking For. With over 600 dental transitions and 25 practices owned, Kyle brings unmatched insight into how valuations really work in today's changing landscape. Together, Mark and Kyle explore why the old method of valuing practices based on collections is outdated, and how modern buyers—especially DSOs and private equity groups—assess value through profitability, scalability, and risk. They break down the differences between doctor-to-doctor sales and private equity-backed deals, explain what seller discretionary earnings and EBITDA actually mean, and share how practice size, location, payer mix, and clinical capacity influence multiples. Whether you're planning to sell soon or years from now, this conversation is packed with strategies to make your practice more attractive and maximize its value. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Mark answers a wide range of listener questions in a value-packed Ask Mark Anything session focused on practice growth, profitability, leadership, and investing. He breaks down how to know when you're done "tweaking" and when it's time for creative, structural, or transformational change, using objective metrics like systemization, leadership, culture, and profitability benchmarks.  Mark also dives into smart investment strategies beyond the practice, including multi-practice ownership, real estate, and alternative investments, while addressing how to handle employee raises in a fair, systematic, and drama-free way. The episode wraps with insights on avoiding shiny object syndrome, using assessments to guide growth, and the importance of unplugging to recharge. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by Chris Richards and Dr. Taher Dhoon to introduce an exciting new concept from the Colorado Surgical Institute — the Seven Figure Associate. They dive deep into what it really takes to build a high-producing, fulfilled associate dentist, emphasizing alignment over simple placement. From personality assessments and leadership development to clinical proficiency in bread-and-butter procedures like endo, crowns, implants, sedation, and wisdom teeth, the conversation outlines a comprehensive 12-month framework designed to elevate associates and support owners.  They also discuss mentorship, business acumen, conflict resolution, and the importance of complementary skill sets within a practice. Plus, they share exciting updates about CSI's new CE experiences, including courses hosted aboard the California Spirit in San Diego. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast