

2244: Why AI Will Never Replace the Human Touch in Dentistry
In today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with returning guest Cory Pinegar, CEO of the fast-growing dental service company Reach. Cory shares his journey from purchasing the company for just $1 at age 22 to scaling it into a team of over 200 employees, with accolades from Inc. 500 and the Salt Lake Tribune. The conversation explores the essential balance between AI and human touch in service industries, the art of sustainable growth, and the alignment of incentives that empower team members and customers alike.
Cory opens up about the painful, lesson-filled early years of entrepreneurship—what he calls his “expensive MBA”—and the vital importance of honest, sometimes uncomfortable, conversations in leadership. The episode wraps with an inspiring discussion on creating long-term value and a mission-driven culture in a rapidly evolving industry.
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