2556: The Capacity Trap That Holds Practices Back

2556: The Capacity Trap That Holds Practices Back

Author: Dental Consulting July 20, 2026 Duration: 34:31

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes answers listener questions in this Ask Me Anything special, covering ownership strategy, practice growth, scaling decisions, and the team of advisors every dental owner should build. Mark shares what he would do differently if he were starting over as a new grad, including avoiding practices that are too small to scale, being cautious with overly rural locations, and focusing on demographics, capacity, and long-term exit options. 

He also discusses when it makes sense to add another doctor, what metrics to watch beyond revenue, and why owners should stabilize their flagship practice before pursuing additional locations. The episode also dives into building a personal board of directors, including a CPA, bookkeeper, attorney, tax strategist, financial advisor, banker, and performance coach, before wrapping with advice on making faster, less fearful business decisions without abandoning thoughtful analysis.

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

EPISODE RESOURCES


Running a dental practice is about so much more than clinical skills; it's a complex business that demands leadership, strategy, and personal resilience. The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes directly addresses that reality, moving past generic advice to offer concrete conversations for growth. Each episode features in-depth discussions with leading voices from dentistry and beyond, focusing on the actionable lessons that have shaped their success. You'll hear candid explorations of practice profitability, team management, systems efficiency, and the personal development required to lead effectively. The dialogue acknowledges the unique pressures and isolation that can come with the profession, providing a sense of community and practical solutions. This isn't just about working harder, but about working smarter to build a practice that supports a more balanced and fulfilling life. By translating high-level business and entrepreneurial concepts into the specific context of a dental office, the podcast serves as a ongoing resource for dentists who see themselves as innovators and business owners. Tune in for honest stories, strategic insights, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive both in the operator and in the marketplace.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes
Podcast Episodes
2570: Better Patient Care Starts With Better Questions [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:09
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Michelle Strange, MSDH, RDH, live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Michelle shares her unconventional path from dental assistant to hygienist, educator, entrepreneur,…
2569: What High-Level Dental Operators Do Differently Pt. 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:16
On today's episode, Part 2 of the same keynote, Dr. Mark Costes continues his tactical playbook for building a more effective, systemized dental practice. He breaks down the five core steps of leadership, explains how to…
2568: What High-Level Dental Operators Do Differently Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:25
On today's episode, Part 1 of a two-part keynote, Dr. Mark Costes shares a tactical playbook for leading and operating a high-performing dental practice. Drawing from his experience owning 16 practices—and from the mista…
2566: How Dentists Can Build Wealth With Intention [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:20
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Matt Mulcock, CFP and Managing Partner at Dentist Advisors, for a practical conversation on financial planning throughout the full arc of a dentist's career. Matt breaks…
2565: The Real Talk Behind Surgical and Prosthetic Complications [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:35
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by Dr. Dan Briskie and Dr. Thomas Fow for a practical conversation on surgical, prosthetic, and patient management complications in implant dentistry. Together, they discuss…
2564: Building Better Dentists Through Better Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:57
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Lou Graham live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Lou shares the story behind Catapult Education, the independent education-based company he founded 23 years ago,…
2563: The Blackbelt Standard [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:52
Dr. Mark Costes presents the 2026 Golden Rhino Award case studies, honoring two standout transformations: Dr. Blake Hamlin and Dr. Collin Myrick, both UT Houston grads who joined DSI feeling successful but stuck and isol…
2561: The Real Tradeoffs Behind De Novo Growth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:41
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes answers a wide range of listener questions in this Ask Me Anything edition, covering everything from managing serious back issues as a dentist to weighing the pros and cons of a de nov…