The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today’s episode, Dr. Summer Kassmel, Dr. Kelly Dove and Ashlee Hirschfeld discuss the importance of CEO/admin time in scaling your practice and maintaining balance in your life. They share how intentional planning, such as “pre-week planning” and blocking deep work sessions, allowed her to build a thriving multi-practice business while maintaining a family-first schedule. The group dives into identifying high-value tasks, prioritizing projects that truly “move the needle,” and creating systems to tackle recurring problems, like team miscommunications or inefficiencies. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Summer Kassmel and Ashlee Hirschfeld are joined by the inspirational Dr. Kelly Dove, fellow Black Belt coach and multi-practice owner, for an insightful discussion on maximizing CEO and admin time. Kelly shares her journey of intentionally designing her practice to fit her life, including switching to 7-to-2 work hours to better balance clinical efficiency, leadership responsibilities, and family time. They dive deep into the challenges many doctors face when trying to carve out admin time, from fear of lost production to the difficulty of deep work and hard conversations. Kelly outlines her powerful strategies, including pre-week planning, prioritization frameworks like “bucket lists” and “dollar lists,” and creating intentional space for focused, uninterrupted work. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Mark sits down with Dr. Jared Hill and Dr. Dan Nelson, founders of the Dental Legacy Foundation, to discuss their game-changing approach to mission dentistry. From their inspiring work in Tanzania—building sustainable dental clinics and fostering local dentist training—to upcoming projects in Mexico and the Dominican Republic, the conversation highlights the power of collaboration, resilience, and a shared vision for lasting impact. They delve into the challenges of establishing remote clinics, the importance of training local providers, and their plans to expand their model of care across Tanzania. You’ll also hear about their upcoming retreats, including an enriching CE event in Nicaragua designed to inspire dentists to align their practices with their life goals and legacy. EPISODE RESOURCES elevationassociation.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we have the second part of Dr. Ben Kacos's presentation at the Dental Success Summit 2024, titled "Loving, Leading & Learning From Mistakes," Dr. Kacos continues to explore the essential qualities and strategies for effective leadership within the dental profession. He introduces the concept of the "Law of the Lid," emphasizing that a leader can only attract and retain team members whose leadership capabilities are at or below their own level, thereby setting the maximum potential of the organization based on the leader's capabilities. Dr. Kacos draws on the Stoic philosophy, particularly the teachings of Marcus Aurelius, to underscore the importance of self-mastery and preparation in leadership. He discusses the psychological and physiological benefits of challenging oneself, such as enhancing the mid-singulate cortex, which he links to increased willpower and longevity. This forms the foundation for his advocacy of a rigorous morning routine that combines physical exercise, mental preparation, and strategic planning to optimize daily leadership performance. Throughout his presentation, Dr. Kacos seamlessly integrates neuroscience with practical leadership advice, encouraging attendees to embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth. He emphasizes the importance of personal accountability in leadership, suggesting that leaders should always look first to their actions and decisions when outcomes fall short of expectations. Moreover, Dr. Kacos advocates for creating a culture of appreciation, coaching, and accountability within one's practice. He stresses that effective leadership involves not only setting a positive example but also actively developing the potential of team members through continuous engagement and support. As he concludes, Dr. Kacos illustrates the transformative power of leadership with personal anecdotes and broader organizational contexts, highlighting the profound impact that a capable leader can have on their team's morale and performance. His call to action is for all leaders to strive for autonomy within their teams, allowing for a self-sustaining system that thrives even in their absence. This insightful session not only equips dental professionals with the tools to enhance their leadership skills but also inspires them to implement these practices to foster a more productive and harmonious work environment. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we are thrilled to share with you the first part of Dr. Ben Kacos's presentation titled "Loving, Leading & Learning From Mistakes." Dr. Kacos, a long-standing member of the Dental Success Institute since 2015, is renowned for his proactive approach during our mastermind sessions, where he meticulously crafts action plans based on collective insights before even taking his turn in the "hot seats." In his engaging talk, Dr. Kacos, the esteemed owner of Shreveport Dental Solutions and a DSI Black Belt Coach, delves into the profound topics of leadership, mistake management, and personal growth within the dental industry. He shares his unique strategy of listening intently to others’ challenges to build his solutions, illustrating his journey from a detail-oriented practitioner to a visionary leader capable of transforming insights into substantial practice success. This episode isn’t just a rundown of professional achievements; it’s a deep dive into the philosophy of leadership that transcends the conventional. Dr. Kacos discusses the importance of kaizen — the practice of continuous improvement and the impact of small, daily changes that cumulatively drive significant growth. He emphasizes the role of leadership in not just setting the direction but also in cultivating an environment where every team member is empowered to lead in their capacity, underscoring that titles do not make leaders — actions and accountability do. Whether you're a dental professional or someone interested in the broader lessons of leadership and personal development, Dr. Kacos’s insights offer invaluable lessons on the importance of adaptability, the courage to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, and the significance of maintaining equanimity in leadership roles. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we dive into the key components of effective case planning and surgical workflows with Dr. Taher Dhoon, Dr. Daniel Briskie, and Dr. Mark Costes. The discussion covers advanced imaging techniques like CBCT, digital workflows powered by Exocad, and efficient data collection with TRIOS scanners. We also explore hands-on training opportunities at the Colorado Surgical Institute, including live surgical workshops, digital workflow programs, and IV sedation courses. From managing implant inventory to overcoming intraoperative challenges, this episode is packed with actionable insights to refine your surgical strategies. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.com/#1 https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we dive into an inspiring talk from Dr. Mark Costes that explores the pivotal moments that shape a life, the power of perseverance, and the importance of embracing challenges to unlock potential. Mark shares a deeply personal journey, from growing up as the son of immigrant parents to becoming a dentist and a successful entrepreneur. With a passion for teaching and coaching, he connects life lessons from sports, business, and personal struggles, emphasizing concepts like trajectory events, the championship mindset, and the Four Futures framework. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Mark wraps up his insightful conversation with Kevin Tallman, CEO of Mango Voice. Kevin shares how Mango Voice has differentiated itself in a competitive market by focusing on superior customer experience and cutting-edge technology. From call summaries integrated with practice management systems to advanced sentiment analysis, Kevin explains how Mango is revolutionizing communication for dental practices. The discussion takes a personal turn as Kevin candidly shares his battle with anxiety and depression, the life changes that triggered it, and how he found effective solutions through diet, exercise, sleep, and genetic testing. Together, Dr. Costes and Kevin highlight the importance of focusing on mental health and share actionable tips for anyone struggling, emphasizing the power of empathy, community, and proactive health measures. EPISODE RESOURCES mangovoice.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Mark dives into an inspiring conversation with Kevin Tallman, CEO of Mango Voice. Kevin shares his journey from scaling a logistics company to $100M and exiting to a Fortune 100 company, to his leadership at Mango Voice, a leading communication platform for dental practices. Kevin discusses the challenges of scaling businesses, the importance of clarity in vision, and building a culture that fosters long-term success. They explore Mango Voice’s meteoric growth, 30X-ing its value since 2017, and the strategies that turned a struggling business into a thriving enterprise. Kevin also opens up about the emotional and physical toll of entrepreneurship, the lessons from his post-exit reflections, and why building impactful businesses drives him more than money ever could. Stay tuned for part two of this conversation! EPISODE RESOURCES mangovoice.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we have the second part of the October Mastermind with Dr. Cristian Pavel, where he delves deeper into Dental Wellness Essentials. He shares practical strategies to balance the nervous system through rest, mindful practices, and movement, highlighting how these can regulate parasympathetic and sympathetic states. Dr. Pavel emphasizes the importance of proper rest—doing nothing, creating mindful sleep routines, and minimizing distractions like blue light—and explores the transformative power of breathwork inspired by techniques such as Wim Hof breathing and cold immersion. He also reflects on his personal journey with yoga, fasting, and structured morning routines, encouraging others to find their own pathways to vitality, connection, and inner peace. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we hear from Dr. Cristian Pavel during the October Mastermind, where he explores the transformative power of wellness, mindfulness, and breathwork. Dr. Pavel highlights the detrimental effects of chronic stress and distraction, emphasizing how being present and leading with curiosity, love, and compassion can foster inner peace and stronger connections. He also discusses the pivotal role healthcare professionals play in promoting holistic health, showing how improving one’s own well-being can positively impact patients, families, and communities. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we welcome Jake Conway, founder of Custom Practice Analytics and a longtime expert in the Dental Success world. Jake dives deep into the essential signs and strategies for expanding your dental practice, answering key questions like “When is the right time to grow?” and “What numbers should I be tracking?” From hygiene scheduling benchmarks to managing overhead costs, Jake provides actionable insights to help you decide when and how to expand, whether it's adding more operatories, hiring an associate, or refining your systems for efficiency. This conversation is packed with tips to maximize growth and profitability while avoiding common pitfalls. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Mark and marketing expert Ryan Gross, CEO of CMO Share, unpack the evolving dental marketing landscape and the pivotal role of operational alignment. Ryan shares insights on AI’s growing impact, the importance of data-driven decision-making, and how transparency—like sharing pricing on your website—builds trust and attracts patients. They discuss the critical balance between internal operations and marketing strategies to maximize ROI and patient conversions. With proactive planning and a focus on speed, adaptability, and personalized targeting, this episode is packed with actionable advice for practices navigating 2025’s competitive marketing environment. EPISODE RESOURCES http://www.mycmoshare.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Mark dives into the complexities of dental marketing and patient acquisition with industry expert Ryan Gross, CEO of CMO Share. Ryan shares his latest insights into how economic shifts are driving changes in patient behavior, from the growing demand for immediate dental appointments to the rise of searches for financing options and special offers. Together, they unpack data-driven strategies to adapt marketing efforts and internal systems for maximum impact. Whether you're running a startup practice looking to build a patient base or an established office optimizing for high-value treatments, Ryan’s actionable tips, including leveraging AI tools and targeting emergency and sedation dentistry, are game-changers. EPISODE RESOURCES http://www.mycmoshare.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we continue our conversation with J.W. Oliver, the driving force behind SupportDDS and ZimWorks.com. J.W. shares how his company has revolutionized outsourcing by providing highly trained, university-educated team members to dental and medical practices worldwide. From call answering and insurance verification to high-level accounting and IT support, J.W.'s teams not only solve staffing shortages but also deliver cost-effective, top-tier results for businesses. J.W. discusses his commitment to maintaining world-class working environments for his 1,200+ employees, ensuring they thrive in state-of-the-art facilities with benefits, wellness programs, and cultural support. He explains how his flat-rate pricing structure makes scaling easy and why his model significantly outpaces traditional hiring methods in efficiency and quality. The episode also highlights J.W.'s "51% mandate," dedicating more than half of company profits to global ministries and philanthropic initiatives. From supporting orphanages to funding education and medical training, J.W. exemplifies the transformative power of purpose-driven business. Mark and J.W. wrap up with insights into their shared passion for global missions and adventure, from mountain summits to community outreach, and discuss plans to collaborate on future initiatives. EPISODE RESOURCES https://jwoliver.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we sat down with J.W. Oliver, a dynamic entrepreneur and the managing partner of SupportDDS and ZimWorks.com. With over 30 years of experience spanning 20 ventures, J.W. shares his journey from selling Pop Rocks as a kid to creating a global outsourcing powerhouse that employs over 1,200 people in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Costa Rica. Discover how J.W. merges purpose with profit, giving back 51% of earnings to ministries worldwide while providing sustainable employment in regions with high unemployment rates. In this engaging conversation, J.W. reveals the challenges and triumphs of building a business that values culture and community while meeting the rigorous demands of industries like healthcare. He delves into the importance of hiring practices, the logistical hurdles of global operations, and why fostering a sense of belonging in teams is crucial for retention. If you're grappling with hiring issues or considering remote teams for your business, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned to hear how J.W. has not only scaled a global enterprise but has also stayed true to his mission of creating meaningful change across the globe. EPISODE RESOURCES https://jwoliver.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we continue with Brandon Moncrief of McLerran & Associates, a leading expert in dental transitions and DSO affiliations, to dive deep into the intricacies of holdco equity, joint venture structures, and maximizing practice valuations. Brannon explains the nuances of DSO deal structures, including the benefits and risks of holdco equity versus joint venture (JV) models, and how these choices align with a dentist's career stage and goals. He shares actionable insights on what makes a DSO attractive to private equity firms and the critical factors that can influence valuation multiples at recap. Listeners will also learn about common mistakes dentists make when selling their practice, how to avoid being undervalued, and why proper representation and creating competitive market leverage are essential. Brannon reveals how his firm’s sell-side advisory process can increase valuations by 30-50% through strategic negotiation and a blind bidding process. If you’re considering a DSO affiliation or just want to understand the evolving landscape of dental practice consolidation, this episode is packed with invaluable advice to help you navigate these high-stakes decisions with confidence. EPISODE RESOURCES https://dentaltransitions.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we’re joined by Brannon Moncrief of McLerran & Associates, a trusted expert in dental practice transitions, DSOs, and private equity partnerships. Together, they unpack how the 2024 election results may influence interest rates, consolidation trends, and the appetite for DSOs and private equity firms in the dental sector. Brannon provides insights into what makes a dental practice attractive to private equity investors, from infrastructure and alignment with partner doctors to sustainable growth and thoughtful deal structures. He addresses common myths surrounding DSOs, including fears about loss of autonomy, and offers advice on determining whether selling to a DSO is the right move for your practice. The discussion also delves into the natural progression of private equity in the dental industry, from initial acquisitions to IPOs, and the critical factors private equity firms consider when investing in DSOs. If you're considering a transition, curious about market trends, or just want to learn more about the evolving landscape of dental business, this episode is a must-listen! EPISODE RESOURCES https://dentaltransitions.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Adam Marburger, co-founder of the Dental Protection Group, to dive into the innovative 831B captive insurance model transforming the dental industry. Adam explains how this program offers dental practices a win-win solution: improving patient retention, creating tax advantages, and providing an opportunity for substantial long-term savings. With parallels to the auto industry, this system leverages a portion of fees for reinvestment, offering significant financial benefits for fee-for-service practices. In the second half, Adam shares his journey to earning a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt, discussing the mental discipline and humility that translate seamlessly from the mat to business and life. From lessons in strategy to the therapy of physical challenge, Adam reveals how Jiu-Jitsu shaped him as an entrepreneur and a leader. Don’t miss this dynamic conversation that blends cutting-edge business strategy with the life-changing philosophy of martial arts. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.dentalprotectiongroup.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes wraps up his powerful two-part keynote from the Voices of Dentistry conference in Scottsdale, Arizona. In this conclusion, he dives deep into the numbers that drive practice success, breaking down the phases and ratios that dentists can use to assess their practice health. Dr. Costes shares a compelling case study of "Dr. Rex," illustrating how phase classifications and strategic planning transformed his practice. Learn why overhead may be elevated, actionable strategies to reduce it, and how to establish a plan for long-term profitability. If you missed part one, be sure to catch it first!  EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast