The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today’s episode, we bring you Part 2 of the powerful Fireside Chat with Ryan Holiday, live from the 2025 Dental Success Summit. Dr. Mark Costes continues the in-depth conversation with Ryan, diving deeper into the core of Stoicism and what it really means to live with courage, discipline, justice, and wisdom. Ryan explains the third grade version of Stoicism, saying it’s about understanding that we don’t control what happens but we do control how we respond. He brings this idea to life through stories from Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, Seneca, and his own daily practices like cold plunges and early morning runs.  They discuss common misconceptions about Stoicism, the importance of humility in learning, and how wisdom is something earned through experience, curiosity, and consistent effort. Ryan also gives a sneak peek at his upcoming book, Wisdom Takes Work, the final volume in his series on the Stoic virtues, and shares how the virtues interconnect in both leadership and 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

On today’s episode, we kick off Part 1 of an unforgettable fireside chat with bestselling author and modern-day philosopher Ryan Holiday, recorded live at the 2025 Dental Success Summit. Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Ryan to explore his journey from college dropout to Director of Marketing at American Apparel, and eventually to becoming a bestselling author and one of the leading voices in contemporary Stoic philosophy.   Ryan shares how mentorship from Robert Greene shaped his writing career, what it was like working inside a chaotic billion-dollar startup, and how his first book on media manipulation laid the groundwork for his later philosophical works. He also discusses the founding of his Bastrop-based bookstore and content studio, the Painted Porch, and explains how the wisdom of ancient Stoics remains powerfully relevant in today’s fast-paced, tech-saturated world. 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

Brent Saunier, a CPA and CEO at Pro-Fi 20/20 and Phase One Dental CPAs, shares his expertise on tax strategies for dentists. He dives into the Big Beautiful Bill and explains tax advantages like 100% bonus depreciation and the new SALT cap. Brent discusses practical strategies such as the Augusta Rule, employing family members, and the implications of the PTE tax election. He also introduces Phase One, a budget-friendly accounting solution for growing practices. A treasure trove of tips for maximizing tax savings!

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Alan Mead at a pop-up Voices of Dentistry event for a raw, wide-ranging conversation that blends humor, hard truths, and a whole lot of wisdom. From six-dog households to six-figure student loans, they explore how the golden age of dentistry is fading—and why the business side of practice ownership matters more than ever. Mark breaks down the difference between being an entrepreneur by nature versus nurture, and why modern dental students can't afford to ignore practice management.  They also discuss whether W2 employment makes more sense for some doctors, the realities of debt and delayed gratification, and how modern medicine and dentistry compare when it comes to value and patient experience. It’s a must-listen for anyone navigating career decisions, business ownership, or just wondering how many dogs is too many. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.verydentalpodcast.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, you'll hear Dr. Mark Costes' high-impact keynote from the Voices of Dentistry 2025. With over a decade of experience building and scaling practices, Dr. Costes shares the hard-won lessons that transformed his early success—and near burnout—into a sustainable, purpose-driven career. He breaks down the real reason most dental practices struggle with profitability and why simply adding procedures or new patients won't fix a broken infrastructure.   You’ll hear the origin story of the Four Futures framework and how Dr. Costes uses it to help dentists achieve balance across mind, meaning, muscle, and money. He also unpacks the Elite Practice Blueprint, a six-pillar system for building a true business—one that thrives even when the doctor isn’t in the chair. From practical leadership assessments to financial benchmarks, this episode is a roadmap for creating not just a better practice, but a better 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

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.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The 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.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Brannon Moncrief, Principal and CEO of McLerran & Associates, for a deep dive into the current state of the DSO consolidation and private equity landscape. They explore how rising interest rates and a cooling capital market over the last 24 months have forced DSOs to become more disciplined and focused on operational excellence. Brannon shares insights into why joint venture models are gaining popularity, the challenges of recapitalizing DSOs with mixed deal structures, and what practice owners need to know about realistic valuation multiples in today’s market.  They also touch on political headwinds, upcoming IPOs, and how recent SEC rule changes could inject billions into private equity investments—including dental. Whether you're an emerging group looking to become a platform or a solo doc wondering what your practice is really worth, this episode provides the grounded perspective every dental entrepreneur needs. 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

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes interviews Dr. Allan Mohr, a seasoned dentist with over four decades of experience and a passion for mentoring the next generation. Dr. Mohr shares his journey from general dentistry to building a successful fee-for-service cosmetic and restorative practice, highlighting the pivotal role continuing education and mentorship played in his career.  They discuss how to find your niche, market a high-end practice, overcome the challenges of student debt, and invest in yourself early and often. Dr. Mohr also talks about the fulfillment he finds in teaching residents, leaving a lasting legacy in the profession, and how to maintain longevity at the dental chair. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.smilecreations4u.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with the multifaceted Jessica Woods—MPH, RDH, and Senior VP at BlueCheck Dental—for a lively and unexpected conversation straight from Thrive Live in Las Vegas. Jessica discusses her role in bringing Blue Check to the market, a protein-based diagnostic product that helps detect early demineralization and promotes minimally invasive dentistry.   Beyond teeth, Jessica shares her passion for wine and cheese, detailing her journey from clinical hygiene to becoming a certified sommelier and cheese professional. They chat about the science behind terroir in cheese, building a catering company from scratch, and finding joy (and flavor) outside of dentistry. It’s an energizing look at blending clinical excellence with creative expression. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://dentalhygienedirect.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast