The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by DSI Black Belt coach and multi-practice owner Dr. Summer Kassmel for a timely conversation on one of the most persistent challenges in dentistry today: hiring and retaining great team members. They dive into practical strategies for thriving in today's unpredictable labor market—including how to attract high-quality applicants, train non-dental hires effectively using Dental Career Academy, and restructure front office roles for maximum efficiency. Dr. Kassmel shares how she's reduced staffing stress in her own practices through strategic outsourcing, automation, and AI-powered tools, all while keeping high-touch human interaction where it matters most. Whether you're struggling to fill roles or simply want to future-proof your practice, this quick-hit episode is packed with real-world solutions and high-level insights. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we're joined once again by Janet Hagerman, recorded during a timely conversation about the evolving hygiene landscape in group dentistry. As a fractional Chief Hygiene Officer (CHO), Janet partners with emerging DSOs to build hygiene departments that are not just profitable, but also patient-centered and scalable. Live from Florida, Janet and Dr. Mark Costes discuss the real-world impact of the hygiene shortage, what it takes to create an effective periodontal program, and how DSOs have matured into more doctor- and patient-centric organizations. Janet also unpacks the strategies behind her books Selling Dentistry and Meetings Make Money, and explains why assisted hygiene, KPIs, and strong practice culture are essential for sustainable growth. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.janethagerman.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we bring you a powerful keynote from Joshua Scott, delivered live at the 2025 Dental Success Summit. A longtime friend of the show and founder of Studio 8E8—the top-ranked healthcare marketing agency in the country—Josh unpacks how story-driven creativity is the future of dental marketing. He shares how his agency grew from a side hustle to serving over 500 practices, why connection and trust are more important than ever, and how you can leverage performance marketing for predictable, scalable growth. With real-world case studies, practical branding tips, and a deep dive into what actually works in 2025's ever-changing digital landscape, this talk is a must-listen for practice owners ready to level up. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by systems expert and author David Jenyns for a deep dive into the power of systemization, culture, and AI in modern dental practices. David shares his journey from overworked agency owner to founder of Systemology and creator of the new book Systems Champion, a practical guide for empowering the team member who will drive systems forward. The two discuss how to eliminate complexity, reduce resistance from long-time staff, and build a systems culture that makes practices more profitable, predictable, and less dependent on the owner. Plus, David shares real-life applications of AI—from process documentation to patient communication—and how small businesses can adapt quickly. This is a must-listen for dentists looking to grow, scale, and reclaim their time without losing operational excellence. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.systemology.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes catches up with his longtime friend and returning guest Jordon Comstock, founder and CEO of BoomCloud. They dive into everything from Zoom tech issues and real estate investing in Hawaii and San Diego, to building recurring revenue in dental practices through membership plans. Jordon shares his journey scaling BoomCloud over the past decade, highlighting new tools like their AI-driven patient marketplace and B2B outreach features. They also talk about AI's role in scaling marketing and operations, and how practices can leverage these strategies to become fee-for-service. This fun and insightful conversation blends entrepreneurship, AI, music, and passive income — all with the common goal of helping dentists take control of their financial future. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://boomcloudapps.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, it's a special crossover where I sat down with Ian de Jongh on his podcast, Bite-Sized Dental Marketing. We had a wide-ranging conversation on burnout, business ownership, team building, and what it really takes to thrive in today's version of dentistry. I shared how a traumatic baseball injury shifted my path toward dentistry, and how entrepreneurship became a core part of that journey. We covered why burnout is so common in the profession, how dentists often create businesses that become prisons, and why systemization and extreme ownership are non-negotiables for long-term success. From staffing shortages to private equity trends, this episode hits on the real challenges—and opportunities—facing dentists right now. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://painfreedentalmarketing.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined once again by Troy Eckard, CEO of Eckard Enterprises, for a deep dive into how dentists can strategically manage the proceeds from selling their dental practices. With over $1.1 billion in assets under management and nearly four decades of experience in domestic oil and gas, Troy brings unmatched expertise in alternative asset investing. This episode focuses on what to do when a large liquidity event—like a DSO buyout—leaves you with millions to allocate and big tax consequences to consider. Mark and Troy break down a hypothetical case study, walking through how to protect, grow, and optimize that capital with working interests, mineral rights, and class-A real estate. They also explore the dangers of common investment traps, like ATMs and conservation easements, and why tax strategy should start with worst-case scenarios. Whether you're looking to offset W-2 income, replace previous EBITDA, or simply avoid bad deals, this episode is packed with practical, no-nonsense advice for high-net-worth dental professionals. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://eckardenterprises.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Ryan Corby, CEO and co-founder of Smile Advantage, to dive deep into the evolving world of dental membership plans. Ryan shares how Smile Advantage offers a modern, flat-fee platform that puts control back in the hands of private practice owners—eliminating per-patient pricing and clunky spreadsheets. With deep PMS integration, customized automation, and flexible patient renewal tools, Smile Advantage helps offices turn passive income into predictable revenue while improving patient loyalty and reducing insurance dependence. From the importance of white-label branding to real-time payment tracking and click-to-renew functionality, this conversation is packed with strategic gems for fee-for-service practices ready to scale. Bonus: Ryan and Dr. Costes bond over their mutual experiences as soccer dads and Arizona locals. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://smileadvantage.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes Steven Fey, Vice President of Business Development at Maverick Dental Lab, for an in-depth conversation on the evolution of dental lab work and what it takes to consistently deliver high-quality restorations at scale. Steven shares Maverick's journey from a small family business to a national lab processing over 200,000 cases annually—all while staying proudly U.S.-based. You'll hear how modern technology like digital design and in-house milling have allowed for faster turnaround and fewer remakes, and why clear communication between dentist and lab is crucial to avoid costly errors. Steven also offers practical advice for improving outcomes with your lab, and gives a sneak peek into Maverick's exciting Corvette giveaway at the 2026 Dental Success Summit! Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://maverickdental.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Taher Dhoon to unpack the newest addition to the Colorado Surgical Institute curriculum—a hands-on, live-patient 10 over 10 veneer course designed for clinicians ready to elevate their cosmetic dentistry game. Dr. Dhoon walks through the extensive planning behind the course, including case selection, preoperative functional workups, and how the curriculum blends clinical precision with aesthetic artistry. They dive into everything from digital workflows and D-programmer bites to patient psychology, lab partnerships, and revenue optimization. Plus, Dr. Dhoon shares the importance of true hands-on experience in clinical education, and why this course fills a massive gap between theory and execution. If you’ve been looking to expand your restorative and aesthetic skill set with real patients and real results, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we hear from Dr. Jason Tanoory—founder of Finger Lakes Dental, host of the Dental Lighthouse Podcast, and a DSI Black Belt Coach—who shares an in-depth, no-fluff breakdown on how to build scheduling systems that increase efficiency, profitability, and team harmony. Whether you're a solo practitioner, onboarding a new associate, or running a multi-doctor group, Dr. Tanoory offers practical scheduling templates and mindset shifts to reduce burnout, improve predictability, and make your days flow smoother. He explores the concept of “first chair” versus “second chair” appointments, how to leverage routers and team accountability, and why a doctor's self-awareness may be the most important scheduling tool in the office. If you've ever asked yourself, “Why does my schedule look like this?”—this one's for you. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://fingerlakesdental.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Danny Cammarosano, Regional Director at Provide, a division of Fifth Third Bank. With over 20 years of experience in banking and healthcare lending, Danny offers an in-depth look into the world of dental financing—from first-time startup loans to multi-practice acquisitions. They discuss what lenders really look for when evaluating a borrower, the myths around student debt, why liquidity matters more than your credit score, and how practice-specific metrics like EBITDA and operatory count influence loan approvals. Danny also breaks down how Provide supports dentists throughout the ownership journey, why the default rate skyrockets after three practices, and what key differences to look for when comparing multiple term sheets. Whether you're a D4, new associate, or seasoned owner looking to scale, this episode is packed with insider advice and practical takeaways. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES www.getprovide.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with long-time entrepreneur, attorney, and fellow Dan Kennedy disciple Ben Glass for a wide-ranging, inspiring conversation. Ben shares his journey from soccer-playing law student to founder of both Ben Glass Law and Great Legal Marketing. With over 40 years of legal experience—especially in long-term disability claims for high-income professionals—Ben offers powerful insight into why dentists need to understand their disability policies before they ever file a claim. They explore the major gaps that leave dentists unprotected, why working with a broker who understands your profession is crucial, and how to bulletproof your future if injury or illness ever forces you out of the operatory. From the power of mastermind groups to the enduring effectiveness of long-form copy and direct mail, Ben and Mark bond over their entrepreneurial journeys and shared roots in the Dan Kennedy world. This episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to build a purpose-driven life and practice—while protecting what matters most along the way. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.benglasslaw.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with longtime friend, business partner, and Black Belt coach Dr. Addison Killeen to talk about his brand-new book, The Shift: A Leadership Fable of Transition from Overwhelm to Focus. Addison breaks down the motivation behind the book, the real-life struggles that inspired its fictional characters, and why storytelling can sometimes teach business lessons better than a textbook. Together, they walk through the book’s core themes—from building core values to mastering systems and hiring the right people—and why these foundational principles can make or break a dental practice. They also dig into Addison’s past working with defense contractors and restaurants, how those experiences shaped his view of business, and why mentorship is one of the most powerful resources any dentist can access. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes is back for Part 2 of his powerful presentation from the Dental Success Summit, where he dives even deeper into the most pressing challenges facing dental practice owners today—and what to do about them. Mark unpacks the real impact of the shrinking dental workforce, the hygiene “situationship,” and how to turn non-producers into high-performing team members by aligning compensation with measurable KPIs. He also explores the nuances of PPO participation, helping listeners understand how to evaluate profitability per procedure, plan, and provider. With a strong emphasis on leadership, culture, and infrastructure, this session is packed with pragmatic insights to help you scale smarter, retain top talent, and reclaim control in a rapidly evolving industry. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we bring you Part 1 of Dr. Mark Costes' main stage keynote from the Dental Success Summit, where he sets the stage for what it truly takes to thrive in modern dentistry. With trademark honesty and humor, Mark shares his own failures, the lessons they taught him, and why making clinical dentistry optional should be every practice owner’s north star. He introduces foundational concepts like the Four Futures, the Elite Practice Blueprint, and the critical importance of building strong infrastructure before scaling. From workforce challenges and hygiene shortages to PPO frustrations and burnout, Mark breaks down why the most successful dentists don’t just work harder—they work smarter, with clarity, intention, and community. This is the mindset reset that every dental entrepreneur needs. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes reconnects with tax and wealth strategist Derick Van Ness for an in-depth look at how the newly passed tax bill is opening the door for dentists to claim Research & Development (R&D) tax credits once again. Derick explains why these credits disappeared for most practices after 2021, how the recent legislation has reversed that change, and why dentists now have a limited-time opportunity to amend previous tax returns for 2022, 2023, and 2024. They dig into the four-part test that determines R&D eligibility, clarify the difference between deductions and credits, and walk through practical examples of how dentists are unknowingly qualifying through the use of new technology, materials, and processes. Derick also discusses the broader tax landscape—from Section 179 deductions to bonus depreciation and SALT workarounds—plus his firm’s plan to scale by acquiring accounting firms that serve niche industries like dentistry. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://biglifefinancial.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back his friend and fellow entrepreneur, Dr. Taher Dhoon. While the two often dive into surgery, business, and leadership, today’s discussion takes a different turn—into the world of psilocybin journeys and alternative modalities for personal growth. Dr. Dhoon shares how his exploration of guided psilocybin therapy has helped him find deeper fulfillment, improved relationships, and a renewed perspective on life. He walks listeners through what a safe, guided journey looks like, the role of integration afterward, and how these experiences differ from traditional therapy. This candid conversation sheds light on an emerging approach to self-discovery that may resonate with dentists feeling isolated, unfulfilled, or seeking new ways to break through personal and professional barriers. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with returning guest Dr. Matt Standridge live from the Voices of Dentistry event in Gilbert, Arizona. Dr. Standridge shares the major life and career changes he’s made recently, including selling both of his dental practices and moving his family to Oklahoma City. With a renewed focus on education, content creation, and speaking engagements, Dr. Standridge reflects on the transition from ownership to associating, the pros and cons of no longer calling the shots, and how he's using his experience to elevate the practices he's now working with. He also dives into his latest presentation on systematic smile design for GPs—drawing from the principles of Spears and Coyce—and reveals a unique triple-win approach to professional dental photography that builds community goodwill and enhances marketing. If you're a GP looking to integrate ortho, elevate case presentation, or find more balance in your professional life, this is one episode you don’t want to miss. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.drstandridge.comhttps://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, you’ll hear Dr. Mark Costes’ TED talk from the Super Dentist Boost Camp 2025. In this raw and powerful session, Mark opens with a moving passage from his upcoming book, pulling back the curtain on a time in his life when he had achieved every external marker of success—multiple practices, financial freedom, luxury everything—yet still felt completely unfulfilled. He shares the emotional toll of burnout, the cost of ambition without boundaries, and how he nearly lost it all. Out of that experience came the Four Futures framework—Mind, Meaning, Muscle, and Money—which he now uses daily to build a life of intention and balance. Mark also introduces the mission behind Smile Outreach International and explains why giving back has become the most rewarding chapter of his career. If you’ve ever questioned whether the price you're paying is worth the life you’re building, this one is for you. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.comDental Success NetworkThe Dentalpreneur Podcast