2560: Courageous Conversations That Build Better Practices

2560: Courageous Conversations That Build Better Practices

Author: Dental Consulting July 24, 2026 Duration: 28:14

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Katherine Eitel Belt, dentistry's unscripted leadership communications coach, live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Katherine shares her journey from chairside dental assistant to global authority on leadership communication, including the pivotal moment that shaped her approach to helping leaders raise standards with clarity, courage, and compassion. She breaks down her framework for the three essential leadership conversations: invitation conversations, coaching conversations, and courageous conversations.
 
Katherine also explains how practice owners and managers can address accountability without fear, inspire team members into higher standards, and create a culture where people choose growth rather than simply comply. The conversation also highlights her upcoming book, Lead Yourself, Lead Your Team, and why strong leadership begins with self-awareness, emotional regulation, and a willingness to own your role first.

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
2559: The Lease Mistakes That Can Sink Your Dental Practice [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:47
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Eric Pook, owner of Cirrus Consulting Group, live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Eric shares how his background in medical and dental entrepreneurship led him into…
2558: How to Find Opportunity in an Uncertain Real Estate Market [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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2557: The Unfair Advantage - Fireside Chat With Gino Wickman [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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On today's episode, recorded live at the Dental Success Summit 2026, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Gino Wickman, creator of the Entrepreneurial Operating System and author of Traction, Rocket Fuel, and Shine. Gino share…
2556: The Capacity Trap That Holds Practices Back [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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. M…
2554: Evolve - Thriving in Dentistry's New Reality [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:04:28
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes delivers his main stage presentation during the 13th Annual Dental Success Summit, using the story of Jerry the lobster as a powerful metaphor for growth, vulnerability, and the need t…
2553: Inside a High Tech Dental Practice Built for Education [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:03
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Brett Titensor live from Thrive Live 2026 to talk about digital dentistry, technology, and building a practice designed for the future. Brett shares what it was like…
2552: Paying Yourself & The Influence You Have Pt. 2 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:59
On today's episode, this Part 2 conversation features Jake Conway continuing his April 2026 Mastermind presentation with a deeper look at hygiene performance, owner compensation, cash flow strategy, and practice valuatio…
2551: Paying Yourself & The Influence You Have Pt. 1 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:33
On today's episode, this Part 1 conversation features Jake Conway presenting during the April 2026 Mastermind and breaking down how practice owners can better understand the numbers that drive their income. Jake explains…