The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

Episod

• 
  2605: The Systems Leadership and Risk Issues Dentists Cannot Ignore 25.09.2026 49min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with longtime friend and Dental Success Network co-founder Michael Lomotan for a wide-ranging conversation on the challenges dental practice owners are facing today. Michael shares what he is hearing from dentists around systems, overhead, staffing, technology, AI, exit planning, and financial organization, while reflecting on his own journey from struggling practice owner to building a stronger, more profitable business.   They also discuss the evolution of DSN, the value of community and coaching, the importance of leadership, and why risk management, HR compliance, and operational discipline can be just as important as production and growth. 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
• 
  2604: The Mindset Shift That Makes Better Habits Finally Stick 24.09.2026 41min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes explores why lasting transformation starts with identity, not simply goals, motivation, or willpower. He explains how thoughts, behaviors, and small consistent habits provide the evidence your subconscious needs to believe that you are becoming a different version of yourself.  Mark breaks down four steps for personal and professional reinvention, including visualizing your ideal future, releasing limiting identities, reinforcing new beliefs through action, and creating an environment that supports continued growth. He also examines fixed versus growth mindsets, the power of internal self-talk, accountability, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can accelerate meaningful change in every area of life. 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
• 
  2603: The Payment Processing Mistakes Quietly Eating Into Your Profit 23.09.2026 42min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Chris Sands, founder of Crown Card Services, to unpack the confusing world of dental credit card processing and explain where practices may be losing money without realizing it. Chris breaks down the difference between integrated and interfaced payment systems, how bridge technology is opening up more processor choice, and why locked-in rates, transparent statements, and regular audits matter.  They also discuss compliant surcharge programs, online payments, text-to-pay, accounts receivable, and how small percentage differences in processing costs can translate into major gains in EBITDA and long-term practice value. The conversation gives practice owners a practical framework for evaluating their current processor and becoming more informed consumers of payment technology. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://crowncardservices.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast
• 
  2602: The Systems-Driven Dental Practice 22.09.2026 39min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes presents a practical introduction to building a systems-driven dental practice for dental students preparing to enter the profession. He explains why clinical skill alone is not enough to create a profitable, sustainable practice and why dentists need to understand business fundamentals whether they plan to become owners or associates.  Mark breaks down the importance of mission, vision, core values, operational systems, patient experience, human resources, cash flow, and overhead control. He also covers the APE framework, financial phases of practice growth, KPIs, operations manuals, effective meetings, and organizational charts, emphasizing why dentists should strengthen their infrastructure before adding more patients, procedures, or locations. 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
• 
  2601: What Dentists Should Know About the Changing Dental Supply Market 21.09.2026 42min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with David Charnowitz, founder and CEO of DC Dental, to discuss how the dental supply market is changing and what independent practices should understand about purchasing, pricing, and value. David shares how he built DC Dental from a startup into a major independent supplier, why the company focuses heavily on private practices, and how a lean operating model can create more competitive pricing.  They also discuss house brands, distribution strategy, service models, pricing transparency, and the importance of understanding the true value behind every expense in a dental practice. The conversation closes with practical business lessons around reading financial statements, managing costs, and building a more efficient operation. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.crazydentalprices.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast
• 
  2600: Above the Hillary Step: The Lifestyle Practice on Your Terms 18.09.2026 50min

  On today's episode, Dr. Cody Boals and Dr. Chris Green present a practical framework for scaling a dental practice during the Dental Success Summit 2026. Using the journey up Mount Everest as a metaphor for practice growth, they break ownership into three stages: clinical, entrepreneurial, and aspirational. They explain what leadership, systems, staffing, provider growth, and operational structure are needed at each level.  They also share deeply personal stories that show why building redundancy and freedom inside a practice matters far beyond production, including the ability to step away when family needs you most. The presentation challenges dentists to define their own vision, grow intentionally, develop stronger leaders, and build a practice that supports the life they actually want. 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
• 
  2599: The Tale of 2 Worlds in the Dental Office 17.09.2026 55min

  On today's episode, Dr. Allen Gotora presents a powerful framework for bringing the dentist's world and the team's world into better alignment during the Dental Success Summit 2026. Drawing from his own leadership journey and a recent dental mission in the Dominican Republic, Allen explains how unclear expectations, weak communication, toxic behavior, and lack of leadership development can create unnecessary division inside a practice.  He breaks down practical ways to strengthen culture, normalize feedback, improve communication, recognize team members, eliminate gossip, and create clearer roles and accountability. The goal is simple but essential: build a practice where doctors and team members understand each other better, lead from their positions, and work together around a shared mission. 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
• 
  2598: The Unexpected Path From Endodontics to Mission Work in Fiji 16.09.2026 30min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes takes the podcast offshore, recording from the ocean in Fiji with Dr. Jeff Clark for a conversation on military dentistry, endodontics, practice ownership, and mission work. Jeff shares how the Navy helped shape his early career, why he ultimately chose endodontics, and how he found the opportunity to return to his hometown in Montana and become a partner in an established specialty practice.  They also discuss aircraft ownership, the flexibility that comes with building the right business, and why mission trips have become such an important part of Jeff's life. Jeff reflects on the relationships formed through service, the perspective that comes from treating patients with limited access to care, and why experiences like Fiji can make dentistry back home feel simpler and more meaningful. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://smileoutreachinternational.org https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast
• 
  2597: Building Community in a Profession That Can Feel Isolating 15.09.2026 44min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with longtime friend Dr. Paul Goodman to reflect on nearly a decade of Dental Nachos and the evolution of the community, business, and relationships built along the way. Paul shares how Dental Nachos grew from a simple Facebook group into a broad dental community, why his original vision for a CE subscription business did not unfold as expected, and how sponsorships, live events, and Dentist Job Connect became important parts of the larger Nacho universe.  They also discuss social media, building authentic communities, hiring associates, the value of comparing multiple candidates, hygiene staffing challenges, and why dentists need to make business decisions based on math instead of emotion. 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
• 
  2596: Two Philosophies for Building a Surgical Program 14.09.2026 59min

  On today's episode, Dr. Taher Dhoon and Dr. Dan Briskie present two different approaches to building a successful implant practice during the Dental Success Summit 2026. Dr. Dhoon shares lessons from growing through acquisition, including how to introduce advanced procedures gradually, train the entire team, improve case acceptance, build clinical confidence, and avoid overwhelming the practice with too much change at once.  Dr. Briskie breaks down his startup journey, covering real estate, equipment, marketing, CRM systems, full-arch growth, staffing, lab workflows, and the importance of matching marketing spend to clinical readiness. Together, they show how thoughtful systems, mentorship, repetition, and clear ownership can help dentists scale advanced services while protecting the practice and the team. 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
• 
  2595: From Chaos to Control 11.09.2026 57min

  On today's episode, Ashley Keith, Sydney Robinson, and Amy Hernandez present a practical framework for moving a dental practice from chaos to control during the Dental Success Summit 2026. They break down how unclear roles, weak workflows, inconsistent billing processes, and poor handoffs can create unnecessary stress, lost revenue, and team burnout.  The presentation covers how to create clearer ownership, build backup systems, improve delegation, strengthen insurance and billing workflows, and connect better systems to stronger case acceptance. They also share simple ways teams can identify bottlenecks, reduce confusion, and implement processes that actually support growth. 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
• 
  2594: From Immigrant Roots to Building a Dental Group With Purpose 10.09.2026 36min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Albert Voravong in Fiji during a Smile Outreach International mission to talk about dentistry, entrepreneurship, family, and purpose. Albert shares his parents' immigration story, his path into dentistry, and how he went from launching a rural startup to building a multi-practice organization in Canada.   They discuss the lessons that came from both successful and difficult practice growth, the importance of strong operational leadership, building the right team, navigating acquisitions, and creating alignment around a long-term vision. Albert also reflects on mission dentistry, the influence of his parents' sacrifices, and how service has become an important part of defining success beyond business growth. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://smileoutreachinternational.org https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast
• 
  2593: The Leadership Habits That Make Work and Life More Sustainable 09.09.2026 52min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes explores the connection between prioritization, leverage, simplicity, and the people we choose to surround ourselves with. He shares lessons from his travels and mission work, including how service, gratitude, adaptability, and reducing unnecessary complexity have reshaped the way he approaches both business and life.  Mark also challenges listeners to evaluate their first-quarter progress, eliminate negative patterns, improve fulfillment, and focus on no more than a few meaningful priorities at a time. He closes with a practical breakdown of labor efficiency, overhead, profitability, and "the spread," showing how better stewardship of every dollar can create a stronger, more sustainable dental practice. 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
• 
  2592: From Cavities to Code: How AI is Revolutionizing the Dental Workspace 08.09.2026 51min

  On today's episode, Dr. Steve Dove and Dr. Beau Sparkman breaks down practical ways dental teams can move beyond casual AI use and start building repeatable workflows that actually improve the practice.  They walk through tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity, and NotebookLM, explain how to build stronger prompts, and show how AI can support everything from PR responses and Google reviews to SOPs, team training, research, and decision-making. They also discuss automations, AI agents, HIPAA considerations, and why the real advantage comes from systemizing AI instead of simply asking random questions. 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
• 
  2591: Using AI Agents to GSD - A Practical Approach to Patient Relationship Management and Scaling Outreach 07.09.2026 53min

  On today's episode, Dr. Lior Tamir speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about using AI, systems, and intentional follow-up to grow a more efficient and profitable dental practice. Drawing from his experience building a marketing agency, returning to dentistry, and scaling multiple practices, Dr. Tamir explains why patient experience, social proof, marketing, and a clear sales process are essential for growth.  He breaks down the hidden opportunity in unscheduled treatment, why most follow-up systems fail, and how practices can use dedicated "setters," scripts, financing conversations, and consistent outreach to help patients move forward with needed care. Dr. Tamir also shares how AI agents can support dental teams by identifying outstanding treatment, drafting personalized outreach, tracking conversations, and helping practices create more human, trustworthy patient experiences without replacing the people who make those relationships work. 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
• 
  2590: From Clinical Burnout to Business Ownership That Works 04.09.2026 40min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes takes the stage at The Practice Launchpad event to share the business lessons he wishes more dentists learned before becoming practice owners. Drawing from his experience owning 16 practices and making nearly every mistake along the way, Mark breaks down why so many dental practices struggle with profitability, leadership, systemization, team retention, and cash flow.  He explains the importance of building a systems-dependent practice instead of a people-dependent one, creating a strong patient experience, understanding the numbers behind the business, and surrounding yourself with the right support. Mark also shares the Four Futures framework and why financial success means very little if your health, relationships, mindset, and overall quality of life are falling apart. 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
• 
  2589: Building Better Dental Payments Without the SaaS Overload 03.09.2026 48min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Mark Rasmussen, CEO and co-founder of Moolah, to unpack the company's journey from general payment processing to a dental-focused technology platform serving thousands of practices. Mark shares how an introduction to the Dental Success Network helped spark Moolah's move into dentistry, why narrowing the company's focus accelerated growth, and how staying committed to simple pricing, no SaaS fees, and strong customer support has shaped the business.  They also discuss PMS integrations, the shift toward cloud-based software, automated accounts receivable, building a strong visionary-integrator relationship, navigating private equity interest, and why customer experience continues to drive Moolah's growth. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.moolah.cc https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast
• 
  2588: Recap Reality: Understand the Truth Behind Recapitalization Events 02.09.2026 58min

  On today's episode, Kyle Francis speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about recap reality and what dentists need to understand before entering a recapitalization event. Kyle breaks down how assets, liabilities, equity, and risk all factor into practice ownership, and explains that recaps can include anything from refinancing debt to selling a majority stake to a private equity-backed group.  He clarifies why recap events became so common during the low-interest-rate years, why today's market has created longer hold times and more scrutiny, and how private equity groups evaluate dental platforms using growth, margin improvement, acquisition arbitrage, and discounted cash flow models. Kyle also unpacks rollover equity, earn outs, earn ups, joint venture versus holding company equity, pari passu rights, liquidity expectations, founder syndrome, and the importance of understanding a buyer's funding structure, track record, and incentives before choosing a partner. 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
• 
  2587: Milestones In Motion 01.09.2026 59min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes hosts the Milestones in Motion transformation contest during the Dental Success Summit 2026, featuring powerful stories from Dental Success Institute members who have created major growth in their practices and personal lives. Dr. Josh Hall shares how DSI helped him shift from scarcity to abundance, expand into a larger facility, build a stronger team, and create more time for family experiences.  Dr. Kelly Grubbs and Dr. Marianne Weatherford discuss how partnership, culture, systems, and faith over fear helped them transform Ridge Dental and Aesthetics while navigating real-life challenges. Dr. Andrew Kung and Kathy Lin share how Vitality Dental evolved from a scratch startup into a healthier, more team-led practice, while Dr. Mary Margaret Vaughn tells her inspiring story of taking big leaps before feeling ready, expanding her practice, building systems, growing her team, and creating more freedom while raising two sets of twins. 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
• 
  2586: How to Choose the Right Practice Exit Path 31.08.2026 41min

  On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Brannon Moncrief of McLerran & Associates for a timely conversation about the current dental transition market, DSO consolidation, and how practice owners should evaluate their exit options. Brannon breaks down why the DSO market has shifted since the white-hot acquisition years of 2021 and 2022, how higher interest rates and more disciplined buyers have changed valuations and deal structures, and why alignment between sellers and DSOs matters more than ever.  He also compares DSO affiliations with private doctor-to-doctor sales, explaining how revenue, EBITDA, cash at close, work-back expectations, equity risk, and operational support all factor into the decision. Together, Mark and Brannon discuss when a private sale may make more sense, when a DSO deal may be worth exploring, and why understanding both the economics and the "why" behind a sale is essential for making the right transition decision. 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