Jon Mathis, Author at Dental Success Institute

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!

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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.

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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.

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In today’s Part 1 episode, Dr. Mark Costes shares the captivating journey that took him from 20 dental school rejections to owning 16 successful dental practices and becoming a global leader in dental outreach. Speaking to a live audience, Dr. Costes breaks down the economic realities of private equity’s growing influence in dentistry and why understanding overhead and operational efficiency is more crucial than ever. He dives into the emotional and physical tolls of the profession, sharing why dentistry ranks high in burnout and what practice owners can do to regain their passion and purpose.

From systemization and KPIs to building a sustainable business that can thrive without you in the chair, this episode is packed with the mindset and strategy shifts needed to create lasting success. Mark also introduces the Four Futures framework and his belt system for assessing practice performance, offering a high-level view of how to grow while avoiding burnout.

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On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with employment attorney and HR tech founder Ali Oromchian for a candid and eye-opening conversation about the legal pitfalls facing dental practice owners. Ali, who is the CEO and co-founder of HR for Health, shares the shocking truth about why even well-intentioned dentists are at high risk for employment lawsuits—and what they can do to avoid them.

From missed lunch breaks to post-sale lawsuits by longtime team members, Ali shares real-world examples of how things can go wrong and how HR for Health is helping thousands of practices future-proof their compliance. They also talk about biometric data lawsuits, best practices in termination, and why having airtight HR systems can be the difference between a thriving practice and a legal nightmare.

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On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by Penny Reed, Executive Vice President at ADOM and a trailblazer in dental practice management. Penny shares her journey from being recruited by her dentist to manage a practice, to becoming a nationally recognized consultant and leader in dental office management. She reveals the five key revenue drivers for practice growth, why active patient engagement starts in hygiene, and how simple, enthusiastic patient interactions can powerfully increase new patient referrals.

Penny also dives into her new role at ADOM, highlighting the organization’s mission to support and empower office managers through community, education, and leadership training. Whether you’re a dentist or team leader, this episode is packed with tactical insights on how to build a more efficient, profitable, and harmonious practice.

Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast!

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In today’s Part 2 episode, Dr. Mark Costes continues his compelling conversation with Dr. Lincoln Harris, CEO of RIPE Global, diving deep into the innovation behind their game-changing dental training platform. In this second half, Dr. Harris reveals how their software and hardware ecosystem is built for scalability, with a focus on improving clinical outcomes and associate productivity—fast. From cutting-edge cloud simulators and proprietary mannequins to custom LMS channels and data-driven ROI models for DSOs, it’s all about getting measurable results and breaking down barriers to skill adoption.

Plus, the two discuss strategies for associate engagement using “carrot and stick” methods, and how RIPE is positioning itself as the productivity partner for DSOs worldwide. Mark also shares his vision for sustainable global mission clinics through Smile Outreach International, and Lincoln generously offers RIPE’s support to train local clinicians in underserved areas.

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In today’s Part 1 episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with the always insightful Dr. Lincoln Harris, founder of Harris Dental Boutique and CEO of RIPE Global. Fresh off recording 26 podcasts at Thrive Live, Mark kicks things off with high energy and hands over the mic to Dr. Harris, who shares his incredible journey from Queensland, Australia to Colorado, USA.

The conversation dives into the evolution of RIPE Global from an in-person CE provider to a global force in dental education, now offering cloud-based procedural training, proprietary LMS software, and cutting-edge hardware. Dr. Harris unpacks how their unique platform helps new grads and DSOs alike boost productivity and clinical skill, all while tracking real implementation and ROI. You’ll hear how they tailor training programs to individual needs and how the system can even be white-labeled for other educators.

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On today’s Part 2 episode, Dr. Steve Dove sits down with Dr. Mark Costes, diving deep into the mindset, strategies, and grit it takes to build and scale a thriving dental organization. Steve breaks down his leadership philosophy, including why delegation is essential for growth and how empowering the right people—even when they’re only 80% ready—can transform a business. He shares his passion for making people feel seen, both in his teams and patient care, and gives a candid look at the evolution of his multi-practice journey.

From bootstrapping a pediatric startup for under $200K to navigating challenges with optimism and tenacity, Steve’s insights on entrepreneurship, white space, and creating a sustainable life in dentistry are both practical and inspiring. Whether you’re at one location or planning for more, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom from someone who’s lived every phase of the growth curve.

Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast!

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On today’s episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by longtime friend and DSI Black Belt coach Dr. Steve Dove for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation. Steve shares his journey from immigrating to the U.S. from South Africa at age 11 to becoming a Division I athlete and eventually a successful dental practice owner. He opens up about his early cultural challenges, the pivotal decision to pursue dentistry, and the humbling transition into dental school.

Steve also reflects on how athletics shaped his mindset and how his complementary partnership with his wife, Dr. Kelly Dove, has fueled both personal and professional success. With vulnerability and wisdom, he offers insights into leadership, gratitude, and staying grounded while navigating the demands of entrepreneurship and family life.

Be sure to check out the full episode from the Dentalpreneur Podcast!

EPISODE RESOURCES

2283: Breaking Down the Workforce Shortage in Dentistry

2282: Timing Your Dental Practice Sale for Maximum Profit

2281: How to Systemize Your Practice and Still Love Dentistry Pt. 2

2280: How to Systemize Your Practice and Still Love Dentistry Pt. 1

2279: The Legal Landmines Lurking in Your Dental Practice

2278: The Five Key Drivers to Grow Your Dental Business

2277: The Future of Dental Education is in the Cloud Pt. 2

2276: The Future of Dental Education is in the Cloud Pt. 1

2275: Scaling Smart and Staying Grounded in Dentistry Pt. 2

2274: Scaling Smart and Staying Grounded in Dentistry Pt. 1