The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with longtime friend and mentor Dr. Aaron Nicholas to reflect on their recent experience with the Dominican Dental Mission Project (DDMP). Now in its 43rd year, this unique and tightly-knit mission trip delivers full-scope dental care—including PEDO, restorative, surgery, and prosthodontics—to underserved communities across the Dominican Republic.   Aaron, a 29-time veteran of the trip, shares the story of how he got involved, the logistical complexities of running mobile clinics, and the deep sense of fulfillment that keeps him—and others—coming back year after year. Mark also opens up about how this annual trip has become a cherished family tradition and a powerful remedy for burnout. If you've ever considered giving back through mission dentistry, this heartfelt conversation is packed with inspiration and practical insight. 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

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes catches up with Dr. Taher Dhoon, co-founder of the Colorado Surgical Institute (CSI), to talk about all things surgery, education, and giving back. They dive into CSI’s explosive growth over 2025, including their largest-ever course with over 130 attendees, and highlight the wide variety of hands-on training opportunities CSI now offers—from single implants and wisdom teeth to full-arch, veneer, frenectomy, and IV sedation courses.  Dr. Dhoon also shares exciting plans for a live-patient cosmetic course and the launch of CSI’s first Brazil-based zygoma and pterygoid training. Plus, the duo discusses Arches Across America, a national initiative to provide free full-arch treatment to underserved patients, and the powerful impact of volunteering. Whether you're a surgical pro or new to complex cases, there's something for every clinician in this jam-packed update. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by Dental Success Network COO Ashlee Hirschfeld for a fast-paced and insightful conversation on trending questions from inside the DSN community. The duo dives into topics like employee motivation beyond financial incentives, how to handle red-flag patients before they become a problem, and why clearly defined dental benefits are essential for avoiding team drama.  Mark and Ashlee also explore the evolution of lifestyle practices, hiring temp doctors, and the importance of financial literacy for team members. Plus, get the inside scoop on upcoming DSN webinars, live events, and the launch of Dr. Addison Killeen’s latest book The Shift. 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

On today’s episode, we bring you part two of our special interview with Steijn Pelle, co-founder and CEO of Lassie. In this second half, Steijn continues to unpack how Lassie is revolutionizing dental revenue cycle management by leveraging AI, fintech infrastructure, and regulatory momentum. He discusses why traditional billing models can’t scale, how Lassie eliminates up to 80 hours of admin work per month, and how practices are using reclaimed time and revenue to grow.  Steijn also shares how his experience at Robinhood and Coinbase shaped his approach to building user-focused technology, why Lassie only charges when it delivers results, and what’s next for the platform—including insurance verification, patient billing, and AI-powered appeals. The episode closes with an inspiring take on company culture, world-class support, and why Lassie is named after the iconic rescue dog. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.golassie.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes kicks off part one of a special two-part conversation with Steijn Pelle, co-founder and CEO of Lassie. Steijn shares his remarkable journey from the Netherlands to Silicon Valley, where he helped scale tech giants like Robinhood and Coinbase before launching a mission to bring AI to healthcare administration.   The discussion dives deep into how Lassie is tackling one of dentistry’s biggest pain points—revenue cycle management—and why this seemingly niche industry presents a massive opportunity for innovation. Steijn also talks about his time working inside a dental practice to understand the day-to-day struggles firsthand, and how Lassie’s AI tools are changing the game for admin teams across the country. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.golassie.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, we continue with part two of Dr. Mark Costes’ in-depth conversation with Kyle Francis of Professional Transition Strategies. Kyle breaks down why recapitalizations have become more difficult for DSOs, how deal overhang and shifting market conditions are impacting valuations, and why understanding the right equity structure is crucial for dentists.   He also shares what makes a dental practice a “first-round draft pick” in the eyes of top DSOs, including the importance of EBITDA, geography, provider risk, and infrastructure. Kyle closes with key insights on how to time your transition and why it’s essential to begin with the end in mind. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://professionaltransition.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Kyle Francis, founder and CEO of Professional Transition Strategies, for part one of a powerful interview. Kyle shares his journey into the world of dental mergers and acquisitions, how he built a company focused solely on seller-side representation, and why time can be a deal’s biggest enemy.  He dives into the intricacies of practice valuations, the differences between individual-to-individual sales versus private equity-backed DSO sales, and the common misconceptions many owners have about liquidity and equity. Kyle also sheds light on how market competition has driven higher multiples and what makes some DSOs thrive while others fail. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://professionaltransition.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes reconnects with longtime friend and dental sleep medicine expert Dr. Erin Elliott. Broadcasting from Thrive Live in Las Vegas, the two dive into a lively and powerful discussion about the lesser-known signs of sleep apnea, particularly in young, fit women. Dr. Elliott shares how anatomical and physiological factors—like a scalloped tongue or early morning wake-ups—often point to overlooked sleep disorders that dentists are uniquely positioned to detect.   They also discuss the emotional impact of restoring quality sleep to patients and families, how dental professionals can start screening today, and why “mild” sleep apnea isn’t mild at all. Plus, you’ll hear about Erin’s passion for pickleball, her love for clinical practice, and why she’s not planning to slow down anytime soon. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://3d-dentists.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

In a lively discussion, Doug Fettig, a CPA and dental business advisor, shares his insights on effective dental practice management and leadership. He tackles the common struggles dentists face, from burnout to the pitfalls of poor delegation. Doug encourages breaking free from an "Eeyore" mindset by adopting abundance thinking and emphasizes the transformative power of hiring the right office manager. He advocates for outsourcing tasks while retaining leadership and clinical roles, ensuring dentists can thrive without feeling overwhelmed.

Bill Keith, a DSI black belt coach and dentist from Kansas City, teams up with Paul Gregory, co-founder of Powervox. They delve into how AI is revolutionizing patient communication in dental practices with 'Abby,' an AI receptionist that captures missed appointments and improves patient engagement. The conversation also covers Abby's emotional intelligence, seamless integration with existing practice management systems, and plans for chat-based communication. Discover how these innovations can streamline operations and enhance the overall patient experience.