The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today's episode, Dr. Mark dives deep into the realities of dental business ownership, emphasizing the importance of strong operational infrastructure over just increasing production. Dr. Costes shares insights into his coaching and consulting work with over 230 private clients, the vibrant and supportive community inside the Dental Success Network, and the powerful impact of the world's largest dental buying group.  Dr. Mark also introduces his passion project, Smile Outreach International, which brings free dental care to underserved regions across the globe. With lessons learned from scaling multiple practices and a candid approach to leadership, profitability, and culture, this episode delivers actionable wisdom for dentists seeking sustainable growth. EPISODE RESOURCES * https://www.truedentalsuccess.com [https://www.truedentalsuccess.com/] * Dental Success Network [https://www.dentalsuccessnetwork.com/] * Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dentalpreneur-podcast-become/id983666208?mt=2&ls=1]

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Holli Perez, CMO and co-founder of DirectDental, to discuss the workforce challenges reshaping the dental industry. Holli shares her journey from being laid off in a DSO leadership role to launching a game-changing dental staffing platform that now serves practices in all 50 states. The conversation dives deep into the realities of temp staffing, the growing hygienist shortage, and why nearly 30% of dentists are reportedly doing their own hygiene work.  Holli also unpacks practical strategies for improving employee retention, creating compelling job listings, and recognizing when toxic leadership is sabotaging team culture. With DirectDental now a part of Henry Schein, Holli gives a behind-the-scenes look at their future initiatives to onboard new grads and streamline dental hiring across the nation. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES * https://directdental.com [https://directdental.com] * https://www.truedentalsuccess.com [https://www.truedentalsuccess.com/] * Dental Success Network [https://www.dentalsuccessnetwork.com/] * Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dentalpreneur-podcast-become/id983666208?mt=2&ls=1]

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with dental transitions expert Greg Auerbach, Senior Director at Henry Schein Dental Practice Transitions. Greg unpacks the critical mistakes dentists make when preparing to sell their practices—and why waiting until you're ready to retire could cost you big.  From understanding valuation methodologies like cap rate and EBITDA, to the difference between DSO deals and private practice transitions, Greg offers data-driven insights on how to boost your practice’s value well before it hits the market. Whether you're five months or 15 years from a transition, Greg lays out a clear case for how and when to start preparing for one of the biggest financial events of your career. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES * https://www.henryschein.com [https://www.henryschein.com] * https://www.truedentalsuccess.com [https://www.truedentalsuccess.com/] * Dental Success Network [https://www.dentalsuccessnetwork.com/] * Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dentalpreneur-podcast-become/id983666208?mt=2&ls=1]

In today’s Part 2 episode, Dr. Mark Costes dives deep into the tactical side of building a scalable and profitable dental practice. He outlines his proven frameworks for streamlining operations, conducting effective team meetings, and mastering key performance indicators (KPIs). Dr. Costes shares real-world examples from his journey managing multiple practices, emphasizing the importance of organizational charts, performance reviews, and clear leadership expectations. He also breaks down the true cost of procedures, from crown preps to implants, so you can make data-driven decisions—especially when considering insurance plans or expanding your services.  With insights on staff retention, associate training investment, and systemizing roles through time journaling, this episode is a must-listen for any dentist looking to grow efficiently without burnout. The episode closes with powerful audience Q&A, addressing everything from managing multiple cultures across locations to building a fee-for-service startup in a PPO-heavy world. EPISODE RESOURCES * https://www.truedentalsuccess.com [https://www.truedentalsuccess.com/] * Dental Success Network [https://www.dentalsuccessnetwork.com/] * Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dentalpreneur-podcast-become/id983666208?mt=2&ls=1]

In today’s Part 1 episode, Dr. Mark Costes shares the captivating journey that took him from 20 dental school rejections to owning 16 successful dental practices and becoming a global leader in dental outreach. Speaking to a live audience, Dr. Costes breaks down the economic realities of private equity’s growing influence in dentistry and why understanding overhead and operational efficiency is more crucial than ever. He dives into the emotional and physical tolls of the profession, sharing why dentistry ranks high in burnout and what practice owners can do to regain their passion and purpose.  From systemization and KPIs to building a sustainable business that can thrive without you in the chair, this episode is packed with the mindset and strategy shifts needed to create lasting success. Mark also introduces the Four Futures framework and his belt system for assessing practice performance, offering a high-level view of how to grow while avoiding burnout. EPISODE RESOURCES * https://www.truedentalsuccess.com [https://www.truedentalsuccess.com/] * Dental Success Network [https://www.dentalsuccessnetwork.com/] * Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/dentalpreneur-podcast-become/id983666208?mt=2&ls=1]