The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

In today's Part 1 episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes Morgan Hamon, a former Navy F-18 pilot turned CPA, who now dedicates his expertise to helping dental practice owners achieve financial clarity and profitability. Morgan shares his unique journey from landing on aircraft carriers to launching a specialized accounting firm with his father—one that eventually joined EisnerAmper. Morgan dives deep into the common financial blind spots of dentists, the vital importance of understanding profit margins, and how to identify whether revenue shortfalls or bloated expenses are holding a practice back. Plus, he explains why variable cost control and staff efficiency are critical, and how tax mitigation strategies like S-Corp elections and proper expense categorization can drive long-term success. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.eisneramper.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, repeat guest and oil and gas expert Troy Eckard returns to unpack the massive changes affecting the energy investment space. With decades of experience and over $850 million raised for oil and gas projects, Troy offers a deep dive into the differences between mineral rights and working interests, the tax advantages of each, and how savvy investors can take advantage of recent policy changes like the One Big Beautiful Bill. He and Dr. Mark Costes also discuss global economic factors influencing oil prices, including tariffs, the dollar's value, and the geopolitical landscape. Whether you're looking for passive income or aggressive tax strategies, Troy breaks down the practical ways investors can build wealth in today's energy market—without falling victim to the growing number of questionable promoters in the space. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://eckardenterprises.com/dentalpreneur/ https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with licensed mental health counselor and life coach Nikolai Blinow, who specializes in burnout, high-functioning anxiety, and adult ADHD. From a former fundraising executive to a TEDx speaker and mindfulness-based therapist, Nikolai shares her powerful origin story and how a pivotal trip to Costa Rica helped her redefine success and fulfillment. The conversation dives into the unique stressors dental professionals face, how burnout can quietly erode productivity and personal relationships, and why mindfulness, movement, and even Yoga Nidra can be game-changers for anyone navigating the demands of business and life. This is a compelling listen for any high-achiever seeking to avoid—or recover from—mental and emotional fatigue. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.ompowermentpsych.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Kwane Watson, the visionary founder and CEO of Kare Mobile Inc. With a background in both private practice and corporate dentistry, Dr. Watson has pioneered a transformative model of mobile dental care using single-operatory vans combined with proprietary technology. He shares how Kare Mobile addresses healthcare inequities by partnering with insurance companies, counties, and institutions like jails to bring care directly to underserved populations. Dr. Watson also explains the inner workings of his fleet, the ROI of mobile care, how self-scheduling software boosts efficiency, and why he's expanding his tech-forward DSO model. From manufacturing vans in-house to scaling digital dentures and tele-dentistry, this episode showcases the future of accessible, scalable, and entrepreneurial dentistry. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://karemobile.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Kyle Guerin, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at Henry Schein, to explore the transformative power of service in dentistry. Kyle shares incredible stories from nearly two decades of humanitarian outreach—including 16 trips to Ethiopia—where dental care and education have created ripple effects of hope and opportunity. He explains Henry Schein's commitment to health equity through initiatives like Shine Cares kits, sustainable clinic models, and partnerships with dentists and nonprofits worldwide. From outfitting clinics in remote areas to 3D-printing dentures in the Bahamas, Kyle unpacks how clinicians can use their skills to not only restore teeth, but also dignity and opportunity for underserved populations. Whether you've done one mission trip or none at all, this episode will inspire you to make service a meaningful part of your career. Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.henryschein.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

In today's Part 2 episode, Dr. Mark returns with a powerful message on the critical importance of practice infrastructure over sheer production. From leadership and culture assessments to systemization, He shares the real metrics that matter in dental practice ownership. He emphasizes how many practices in the U.S. operate at 2% or even negative profitability—and what that means for your financial legacy. Dr. Mark introduces foundational frameworks like the Six Pillars of Practice Optimization and the Four Futures—mind, meaning, muscle, and money—to help dentists achieve holistic success, not just financial wins. Drawing from his own experience of building six practices and achieving millionaire status only to find himself unfulfilled, Dr. Mark reminds us that success without balance is an illusion. He also touches on why dentistry is a hot target for private equity, the workforce crisis post-COVID, and how to think like a sophisticated business owner. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

Dr. Mark delves into the hidden profit leaks in dental practices, stressing that operational efficiency is key to sustainability. He emphasizes the need for solid business acumen in managing finances and understanding practice metrics. Insights from his work with over 230 private clients reveal common pitfalls and the importance of confronting financial challenges. Additionally, he shares his passion for providing free dental care to underserved communities through Smile Outreach International, demonstrating a commitment to broadening access to dental health.

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://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

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

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 Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast