2594: From Immigrant Roots to Building a Dental Group With Purpose

2594: From Immigrant Roots to Building a Dental Group With Purpose

Author: Dental Consulting September 10, 2026 Duration: 36:26

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Albert Voravong in Fiji during a Smile Outreach International mission to talk about dentistry, entrepreneurship, family, and purpose. Albert shares his parents' immigration story, his path into dentistry, and how he went from launching a rural startup to building a multi-practice organization in Canada.
 
They discuss the lessons that came from both successful and difficult practice growth, the importance of strong operational leadership, building the right team, navigating acquisitions, and creating alignment around a long-term vision. Albert also reflects on mission dentistry, the influence of his parents' sacrifices, and how service has become an important part of defining success beyond business growth.

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
2579: Why Associates Leave and How To Keep Them [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 58:38
On today's episode, Dr. Paul Goodman, also known as Dr. Nacho, speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about why associate dentists leave and how practice owners can create a more fulfilling, aligned experience for…
2578: Grow for What [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:04
On today's episode, Dr. Bill Keith speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about understanding your freedom number and building a practice with a clear destination in mind. Drawing from his background in finance, pr…
2577: Protecting Capital in a Chaotic Economy [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:17
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Troy W. Eckard for a timely conversation about oil and gas, global energy demand, and how current economic uncertainty is shaping investor behavior. Troy shares why he be…
2576: From Navy Dentistry to Practice Ownership [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:48
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Dr. Chaz Vittitow, also known as Dr. Chaz, for a conversation about military dentistry, startup ownership, mentorship, and building a career with intention. Dr. Chaz sha…
2575: How to Keep Your Team Compliant and Supported [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:15
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Ralf Tomandl, COO of HR for Health, live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Ralf shares his journey through the dental industry, from his early days with 1-800-DENTIST…
2574: Turning Hygiene Challenges Into Practice Growth [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:18
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes sits down with Wendy Briggs live from Thrive Live 2026 in Las Vegas. Wendy shares her perspective on the current state of dental hygiene, including the ongoing provider shortage, risin…
2573: The Stress-Free Hygiene System [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 49:21
On today's episode, Dr. Addison Killeen speaks during the Dental Success Summit 2026 about building a stress-free hygiene system that creates clarity, consistency, and less decision fatigue inside the practice. He breaks…
2572: The Daily Money System Every Practice Owner Needs [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:10
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes is joined by Brent Saunier and Chris Sands of Pro-Fi 20/20 and Phase One Dental CPAs for a practical conversation on cash flow planning inside the dental practice. Instead of focusing…
2571: Training the Next Generation of Dental Assistants [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:38
On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes welcomes back Dr. Heather Dawn Lawson Myers for an inspiring conversation about leadership, mentorship, team development, and the future of dental assisting. Dr. Lawson Myers shares he…
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,…