Épisodes

  • Special List #12: Why the Doctor Isn’t the Most Important Person in the Practice with Dr. Deana Cook

    Special List #12: Why the Doctor Isn’t the Most Important Person in the Practice with Dr. Deana Cook
    Jan 15 2026
    North Carolina periodontist Dr. Deana Cook believes the real engine of a dental practice isn't the dentist, but the team running it.Dr. Cook has two thriving practices and an executive MBA from UNC. With a background in art history, she blends creativity with science and a people-first approach to running her team. In her practices, Dr. Cook leans into transparency, daily KPIs, and fun incentives like team lunches and pooled bonuses to motivate staff. She shares clever systems to keep the office efficient while building ownership and accountability among her 12-person team.She also challenges the myth of work-life balance, viewing it instead as a pendulum that swings with priorities. Hear how she gamifies goals, fosters leadership across roles, and takes incremental steps to improve systems without overwhelming the team.Find out how Dr. Cook builds a culture where every team member feels responsible, patients are happier, and growth happens naturally. GUESTDeana Cook, DDS, MS, MBAOwner & Periodontist at Cook Periodontics & Dental ImplantsDr. Cook attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for her undergraduate education in Art History. After studying abroad in Italy, she began to appreciate the wonderful mix of art and science dentistry provided and went on to graduate from UNC School of Dentistry with honors (2009). She graduated with her Master’s degree in Biomedical Science and a Certificate in Periodontics from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio (2012). Additionally, she graduated with honors from the Executive MBA Program at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School (2023). Dr. Cook is the owner of two periodontal practices in Southeastern NC (Wilmington, Leland) and is the director of a Spear Study Club. She’s a proud wife and mom to two girls (Emery & Sutton).Learn more about Cook Periodontics & Dental ImplantsThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key ...
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    51 min
  • Special List #11: How I Built a Thriving Perio Practice From Nothing with Dr. Lee Cochrane

    Special List #11: How I Built a Thriving Perio Practice From Nothing with Dr. Lee Cochrane
    Dec 30 2025
    For Dr. Lee Cochrane, clarity came through doing: learning on the fly, adjusting quickly, and letting the early chaos shape better systems. He talks about what it really takes to build a periodontal practice from the ground up, and why you often have to start before you feel “ready.”A big part of his story is culture. Lee is honest about how much a practice depends on the people inside it. He describes the power of a team that feels safe, supported, and respected—both in their internal interactions and in how they show up for patients. Standard operating procedures, consistent communication, and clear roles create room for better patient care. When excellence is repeatable, Lee says the entire practice feels lighter and more focused.Mentorship shaped his career, and now leadership shapes his daily life. At the end of the day, Lee sees the team as the most valuable asset he has, and building an environment where they can thrive is the real marker of a successful practice. He explains how team empowerment, positivity, and trust ripple outward into every patient experience. GUESTLeonard Cochrane, DMDPeriodontist + Owner of Coastal PeriodonticsLee Cochrane is a periodontist and the founder of Coastal Periodontics in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. A native of Greenville, Lee graduated from Clemson University with a degree in Bioengineering before completing both dental school and a periodontics residency at The Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, South Carolina. After launching his practice from scratch in 2022, Lee has grown it into one of the area’s most trusted specialty practices through a relentless focus on team culture, operational excellence, and patient experience.Learn more about Myrtle Beach periodontist Dr. Leonard CochraneFollow Coastal Periodontics on Instagram @coastal.periodonticsThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to ...
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    56 min
  • Special List #10: The Side of Dentistry No One Teaches You with Dr. Nicole Saldua

    Special List #10: The Side of Dentistry No One Teaches You with Dr. Nicole Saldua
    Dec 18 2025
    Dr. Nicole Saldua is a general dentist known for her shockingly candid Instagram takes on the human side of dentistry—the loneliness that can creep in, the challenge of calming anxious patients, and dentistry’s failures to explain care in a way real people actually understand. For her, clarity comes from simple language, strong analogies, and frameworks that make consent feel collaborative, not scary.She also explains the emotional rhythm of the day: the “room whiplash” of going from heavy conversations to joyful ones in minutes. Dr. Saldua, Dr. Seda, and Dr. Souyias share their practical reset strategies, from a brief pause between rooms to follow-up touchpoints that remind patients they’re seen beyond the chair.Listen for real-world tools you can use tomorrow: how to set expectations, when to refer, what patient red flags to watch for, and how to build connection in a profession that’s about people first, teeth second.GUESTNicole Saldua, DDSGeneral DentistDr. Nicole Saldua is a general dentist who graduated from the University of Washington School of Dentistry in 2018 and started her career serving in community health before working in a mix of private practices. She recently relocated to sunny Arizona so her kids can live outside year-round and so she’s not freezing her butt off at every future soccer or T-ball game. Nicole launched her Instagram to make dentistry feel less intimidating for both dentists and patients, using real talk, practical tips, and absolutely zero fluff.Follow Dr. Saldua on Instagram @dr.saldua and TikTok @dr.salduaLearn more about S&C DentalThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His education spans several disciplines, including a degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Doctorate degree from Harvard University (DMD), and a Master’s degree in ...
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    1 h et 2 min
  • Special List #9: Through the Eyes of Private Equity: The Power of Culture, Practice Autonomy, and Financial Literacy with Rashed Din

    Special List #9: Through the Eyes of Private Equity: The Power of Culture, Practice Autonomy, and Financial Literacy with Rashed Din
    Dec 4 2025
    With a decade of experience in dental private equity and specialty group leadership, Chicago entrepreneur Rashed Din’s biggest lesson is simple: culture is the real engine. It's daily behaviors anchored in clinical quality, clear values, and leaders who actually live them. Growth only works when new partners share those fundamentals.He keeps finance and operations just as grounded. Deals should be easy to understand, cash-on-cash reality matters more than hypothetical equity, and clinical autonomy works best when paired with a few shared expectations around diagnosis, access, and treatment planning. And in today’s market, profitability depends on transparency and giving teams targets they can genuinely influence.Listen for a clearer sense of how to build groups that actually work—how to protect culture, simplify money conversations, lead clinicians well, and grow without losing your footing. This is your roadmap built from real wins, real mistakes, and a decade of lessons you can put to work immediately.GUESTRashed DinCo-Founder of Maya DentalRashed Din is a strategy consultant–turned investor with roots in investment banking and private equity, who always approached deals like an entrepreneur at heart. Over the last 12 years, he entered dentistry as a private equity investor and ultimately fell in love with the space, dedicating the past 8+ years primarily to building in dental. In the last five years, he’s been deeply embedded in the specialist market—particularly Perio and Oral Surgery—where he partners closely with clinicians and teams. That exposure shaped his strong appreciation for the culture of “authentic specialists,” prioritizing clinical quality, integrity, and collaborative growth.Connect with Rashed on LinkedInLearn more about Maya DentalThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His ...
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    33 min
  • Special List #8: How I Turned Mentorship Into Partnership with Dr. Krupa Patel

    Special List #8: How I Turned Mentorship Into Partnership with Dr. Krupa Patel
    Nov 13 2025
    Dr. Krupa Patel knows that success in dentistry isn’t just about clinical skill—it’s about connection, communication, and shared vision. Reflecting on her journey from associate to soon-to-be partner with Dr. Jason Souyias, she offers an honest look at what it really takes to build trust and grow through collaboration in today’s dental world.Her path was built on mentorship, mutual respect, and clear expectations, turning a professional opportunity into a true partnership. Dr. Krupa shares how aligning on values, recognizing real practice demand, and keeping communication open are the foundations of long-term success.GUESTKrupa Patel, DMD, MSAssociate Periodontist at Periodontic Associates of Port HuronDr. Krupa A. Patel-Sharma, DMD, MS is a board-certified periodontist and Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology. A University of Pennsylvania graduate with advanced IV-sedation and periodontal surgical training, she blends precision surgery with a passion for lifelong learning. Born in India and raised in Michigan, she brings both cultures—and plenty of creative energy—to Dr. Jason Souyias’ Port Huron practice.Learn more about Port Huron periodontist Dr. Krupa PatelFollow Dr. Patel on Instagram @dr.perio.pearlThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His education spans several disciplines, including a degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Doctorate degree from Harvard University (DMD), and a Master’s degree in Periodontics and Oral Medicine from Columbia University.More about Bay Area periodontist Dr. Michael SedaFollow Dr. Seda on Instagram @sedaperioCo-hosts: Cameron Full, Jason Souyias, DDS & Michael Seda, DDSProducer: Eva Sheie @ The AxisAssistant Producers: Mary Ellen Clarkson & Hannah BurkhartEngineering: Cameron LairdTheme music: Papa Funk, spring ...
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    48 min
  • Special List #7: Start With the End in Mind—Blueprinting Success with Dr. Jason Stoner

    Special List #7: Start With the End in Mind—Blueprinting Success with Dr. Jason Stoner
    Oct 30 2025
    Dr. Jason Stoner built his career with equal parts vision, grit, and style—often quite literally. From a single practice in Columbus, Ohio, he’s grown to eight locations, achieved financial independence by 48, and earned a reputation as one of dentistry’s boldest innovators.Dr. Stoner shares how reverse engineering guides both his business and his life, why teamwork is the ultimate growth strategy, and how true success comes from prioritizing patient care over production. He breaks down how he empowers his team, builds trust through referrals, and integrates specialists and hygienists to deliver seamless, high-quality care.With humor, humility, and practical wisdom, Dr. Stoner reflects on the mentors, friends, and mindset shifts that shaped his path, and why doing things differently (and doing them well) is still the best formula for lasting success.GUESTJason Stoner, DDSPeriodontist at Stoner Periodontic and Implant Specialists & Clinical President, Periodontology and Dental Implantology at Gen4 Dental PartnersWith over 22 years in private practice, Dr. Jason Stoner is passionate about dentistry’s blend of business, leadership, and patient care. He values strong core values, academic excellence, and a thriving team culture.Learn more about Columbus periodontist Dr. Jason StonerFollow Stoner Periodontic Specialists on Instagram @stonerperiodonticspecialistsThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His education spans several disciplines, including a degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Doctorate degree from Harvard University (DMD), and a Master’s degree in Periodontics and Oral Medicine from Columbia University.More about Bay Area periodontist Dr. Michael SedaFollow Dr. Seda on Instagram @sedaperioCo-hosts: Cameron Full, Jason Souyias, DDS & Michael Seda, DDSProducer: Eva ...
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    48 min
  • Special List #6: Cosmetic Dentistry Is More Than Just Veneers with Dr. Chris Catalano

    Special List #6: Cosmetic Dentistry Is More Than Just Veneers with Dr. Chris Catalano
    Oct 16 2025
    Dr. Chris Catalano started early, mopping floors at veneer courses and absorbing everything. Working alongside some of cosmetic dentistry’s biggest names, he learned through failure and built a practice patients rave about today.Reflecting on what it means to be a “safe beginner,” Dr. Catalano’s special list includes lessons from a practice collapse that reshaped his vision, and why vision boards, mentorship, and resilience matter as much as technical skill. For Dr. Catalano, dentistry is about more than veneers and esthetics—it’s about building raving fans like you would in any great business, leaning on your community, and remembering human connection will take you farther than textbooks ever will.GUESTChris Catalano, DDSCosmetic Dentist, Owner of Chris Catalano Cosmetic DentistryDr. Chris Catalano was born and raised in Marin County, where he now practices cosmetic dentistry. He graduated from the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in 1991 and immediately dove into continuing education in cosmetic dentistry, learning from some of the field’s top leaders. Over time, he began giving back by teaching in hands-on veneer programs. He also held a unique associate position with Dr. David Hornbrook, a pioneer in cosmetic dental education, which allowed him to travel and learn extensively under his mentorship.Learn more about Kentfield cosmetic dentist Dr. Chris CatalanoFollow Dr. Catalano on Instagram @drchriscatalanoThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area.Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His education spans several disciplines, including a degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Doctorate degree from Harvard University (DMD), and a Master’s degree in Periodontics and Oral Medicine from Columbia University.More about Bay Area periodontist Dr. Michael SedaFollow Dr. Seda on ...
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    46 min
  • Special List #5: What Mastermind Groups Teach That Dental School Can’t with Dr. Mitch Godat

    Special List #5: What Mastermind Groups Teach That Dental School Can’t with Dr. Mitch Godat
    Oct 2 2025
    Dr. Mitch Godat never planned on becoming a dentist, but a life-changing accident at 14 set him on a path to periodontics and dental implants. He looks back on his career, from joining Dr. P.D. Miller’s practice to learning why mentorship and community matter just as much as clinical skill.Learn about the value of mastermind groups where peers share challenges, swap strategies, and lean on one another when practice ownership feels heavy. Hear how post-COVID dynamics have shifted the way teams connect, why structured meetings and core values keep a practice grounded, and how celebrating patient milestones can boost both morale and referrals.For Dr. Godat, success in dentistry comes down to people. Mentorship is a responsibility to pass on, mastermind groups keep professionals inspired, and genuine care keeps patients coming back. In a world where AI is on the rise, he argues that human connection will always be the competitive edge.GUESTMitchel Godat, DDSPartner, SGA Dental Partners and President, Periodontal Associates of MemphisAfter a traumatic accident at 14 left him with multiple injuries, including extensive broken bones and dental trauma, Dr. Godat knew he wanted to help heal people. With this in mind, he dedicated himself to the study and practice of periodontics and dental implants to help restore healthy smiles to patients. In 2000, he joined Periodontal Associates of Memphis, the office of The Father of Periodontal Plastic Surgery Dr. P.D. Miller.Learn more about Memphis periodontist Dr. Mitch GodatFollow Dr. Godat on Instagram @mitch_godat_dds_msThe Special Lists, presented by Referral Lab, is the podcast for dentists and dental specialists.Running a dental practice isn’t easy, and if you’re in private practice, it can sometimes feel like you’re on an island. That’s why finding your people—those who’ve been in your shoes and can share real, lived experience—changes the game.Referral Lab was built specifically for dental specialists, helping you track, manage, and convert every referral. It’s about improving case acceptance, boosting team performance, and strengthening relationships with referring providers so your whole practice runs smarter.This spirit of connection fuels The Special Lists podcast. Hosted by the team behind Referral Lab, we bring you wisdom from practice owners and dental professionals, sharing the wins, mistakes, and lessons that shape how they run their businesses today.Got a question for us? Send us a message at speciallists.com Transform your referral workflow with Referral Lab, the purpose-built platform for dental specialists to track, manage and convert every referral. Request a demo at referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral LabDr. Jason Souyias is a periodontist, educator, and co-founder of Referral Lab software. He teaches dentists and hygienists, including as a Pikos Institute faculty member. In his Port Huron private practice, he's known for excellent patient communication and experience. He's passionate about his work and dedicated to helping other dentists.More about Port Huron, Michigan periodontist Dr. Jason SouyiasMichael Seda, DMD, MSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabA clinician and entrepreneur, Dr. Seda brings 19 years of private practice experience to his periodontal and implant surgery practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. Dr. Seda’s interests are rooted in evaluating and influencing private practice management systems in dentistry. He wants to increase practice efficiency, establish a greater sense of collaboration and trust among practice team members, and enhance quality of care and service delivered—all while maximizing and growing profitability.Through associateship opportunities early in his career, Dr. Seda was exposed to various private practice leadership and business models. He witnessed first-hand inconsistencies in the degree of success and failure owners experienced in private practices. This ignited his passion for learning what empowers practices to thrive and grow successfully while delivering a highly satisfying patient experience. He is particularly interested in using cutting-edge analytics platforms to measure advanced practice metrics. He leverages these to design data-driven strategies to enhance referral patterns, scheduling systems, case acceptance rates, and other key performance indicators that lead to practice growth and patient satisfaction. His education spans several disciplines, including a degree in Psychobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles, a Doctorate degree from Harvard University (DMD), and a Master’s degree in Periodontics and ...
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    52 min