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 Dentistry
Dr. 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.
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Kentfield cosmetic dentist Dr. Chris Catalano
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@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.
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referrallab.io Cameron FullCo-Founder of Referral Lab
Cameron 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.
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Jason Souyias, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Founder of Referral Lab
Dr. 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.
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