Defocus Media

Dry eye management continues to be one of the most important areas in optometry today, impacting nearly every patient who walks into the exam lane. While treatments continue to evolve, one of the greatest tools eye care professionals can leverage is education, helping patients understand the daily habits, products, and risks that affect their ocular […]

Takeaways Optometry is a profession that continually balances medical science with human experience. In a recent episode of the Reel Eyes Podcast, hosts Dr. Jacob Wilson and Dr. Jacobi Cleaver welcomed guest Dr. Morgan Jones for an unusual yet engaging conversation. The discussion spanned rare clinical eye cases, such as Tolosa-Hunt syndrome and Kaposi sarcoma, […]

Membership plans are not just a trend; they're a strategic shift in how modern optometry practices operate. In a world where subscription models dominate industries from streaming to fitness, Direct OD is helping eye care professionals harness the same concept to boost profitability, reduce insurance dependency, and strengthen patient loyalty. In a recent Defocus Media […]

Key Takeaways The Reel Eyes Podcast returns with a blockbuster blend of Hollywood excitement and clinical expertise, and this time the spotlight is on Marvel's Fantastic Four. In this high-energy episode, Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson deliver a conversation that moves effortlessly between cinema and science, offering a detailed review of Marvel's latest […]

The optometry career journey of Dr. Jason Compton is anything but ordinary. From growing up in New York's vibrant neighborhoods to becoming a respected leader in optometry practice management and contact lens specialty care, his story offers valuable lessons for aspiring and practicing eye care professionals. In a candid conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey on […]

Episode Highlights The Reel Eyes Podcast has once again proven that movie reviews can be more than just entertainment they can be an unexpected classroom for eye care professionals. In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson dissect the animated blockbuster Superman (2024), using the Man of Steel's cinematic highs and lows […]

Key Takeaways What does it take to transform a family-owned legacy into a forward-thinking, modern optometry practice? For Dr. Jennifer Chinn, the answer lies in balancing tradition with innovation, patient care with aesthetics, and leadership with authenticity. In this episode of the Play Chess Not Checkers podcast hosted by Dr. Adam Ramsey, Dr. Chinn shares her inspiring […]

3 Key Takeaways What if your practice could be part of a worldwide solution to end uncorrected refractive error—without disrupting your day-to-day operations? That's the idea behind Team OGS. In this episode of the Defocus Media Podcast, Dr. Darryl Glover welcomes Nikki Earich to discuss how Optometry Giving Sight's latest initiative enables practices to give […]

Key Takeaways In the debut episode of the Reel Eyes Podcast, optometrists Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson dive into the film Sinners not just as movie enthusiasts but as healthcare professionals who recognize how cinema can inform patient interaction and clinical insights. The primary keyword, “Sinners,” takes on new meaning as the hosts […]

Eyederm is reshaping the cosmetic conversation in eye care, offering science-backed solutions for one of the most common aesthetic concerns: under-eye bags. In a recent Defocus Media Podcast episode, Dr. Josh Davidson shared his entrepreneurial journey and clinical insights that led to the creation of the Eyederm Eyebag Reducer. As the mind behind Dry Eye Drink, Hydration Masks, and now Eyederm, Dr. Davidson exemplifies how eye care professionals can innovate in the growing field of ocular aesthetics—making patients feel better and look better with products they can trust.

Key Takeaways Understanding sample size calculation is essential for any eye care professional conducting clinical research. Whether you're practicing in a private clinic, academic institution, or commercial setting, knowing how many subjects you need for your study can make or break the integrity of your results. In this Four Eyed Professor episode, Dr. Chris Lievens […]

Key Takeaways The Reel Eyes Podcast converges two powerful worlds: cinema and eye care, to create an innovative platform for optometrists, students, and healthcare professionals. In an industry where education and entertainment rarely intersect, this podcast presents a fresh and engaging way to explore vision care through storytelling. Created by Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. […]

Introduction In Episode 17 of the Eye -Q Podcast, host Dr. Rudrani Banik delves into one of the most pervasive—and often underrecognized, ocular surface challenges: dry eye. Joining the conversation is Dr. Masako Chen, board-certified cornea surgeon at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai and Associate Residency Program Director, whose expertise […]

Key Takeaways On this episode of the Defocus Media podcast, host Dr. Jennifer Lyerly welcomes special guest Amy Gallant Sullivan, CEO and founder of Eyes Are the Story and executive director of the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society. Together, they explore how eye-safe cosmetics are revolutionizing care for patients with ocular surface disease and sensitive eyes. As Amy shares […]

The journey from optician to optometrist is not a common one—but for Dr. Will To, also known as The Traveling OD, it has been a purposeful and passion-fueled evolution. In a compelling conversation with Dr. Adam Ramsey on the Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast, Dr. To shares how his early career in opticianry shaped his […]

Key Takeaways Establishing a thriving clinic from the ground up is no small feat, especially in a competitive market like Florida. But for Dr. David Dada, building a private practice in eye care was more than just a career move; it was a mission rooted in legacy, community, and faith. From humble beginnings to launching […]

The doctor-optician relationship serves as a critical touchpoint in the continuum of eye care. A seamless collaboration between the optometrist and optician ensures not just accurate vision correction but also a holistic, patient-centered experience. In this engaging conversation between Dr. Darryl Glover and optician Sophia Pray, they unpack real-world strategies for strengthening this partnership, from […]

For eye care professionals at any stage of their career, Dr. Adam Ramsey's story serves as both a blueprint and a source of encouragement. His journey into building a private practice reveals not only the hard work behind entrepreneurship but also the power of faith, adaptability, and vision. From his childhood in Trinidad to serving […]

Whether you're an awkward OD or a seasoned professional, learning to master the doctor-optical handoff can transform the entire patient experience journey. In today's fast-paced exam lanes, the art of the doctor optical handoff is more than just a procedural baton pass—it's a powerful tool to enhance the patient experience and build lifelong loyalty. In […]

In today's ever-evolving healthcare landscape, workplace culture has become more than a buzzword—it's a measurable driver of patient satisfaction, staff retention, and clinical excellence. For eye care professionals, cultivating a strong, trust-driven culture isn't just good for morale—it's foundational to providing quality care. In a recent episode of the Four-Eyed Professor podcast, Dr. Chris Lievens […]

In today's evolving eye care landscape, practice management is no longer an optional skill—it's essential. From navigating retail pressures to elevating patient experiences, eye care professionals are reimagining how they lead and grow their practices. Enter the Play Chess Not Checkers Podcast, hosted by Dr. Adam Ramsey and powered by Defocus Media. This series is […]

In Episode 41 of the Depth Perception Podcast, hosts Svetlana and Douglas Akidi are joined by Dr. Jasdeep Singh and Dr. Nadia Afkhami to unpack “What I Wish I Knew: Optometry School.” They discuss their pre‐school expectations versus the reality of full‐day lecture schedules, hands‐on clinical training, and the intense board‐prep timeline. Along the way, […]

On this episode of the Defocus Media Podcast, Dr. Darryl Glover welcomes Dr. Adam Bryan—a seasoned optometrist, entrepreneur, and former owner of a multi-million-dollar practice in Holly Springs, North Carolina. Together, they take a practical deep dive into what it actually takes to build, grow, and eventually sell a profitable eye care practice. Dr. Bryan […]

In this episode of the Eye-Q Podcast, host Dr. Rudrani Banik welcomes cataract and cornea specialist Dr. Kira Nuis for a deep dive into everything clinicians need to know about lens opacities—from the molecular changes that cloud vision with age to the surprising risk factors in children. They'll explore how ultraviolet light accelerates cataract formation, […]

Burnout in eyecare is no longer a silent issue. With over half of optometrists reporting symptoms of professional fatigue, the field is facing a mounting crisis that affects not only clinicians but also the quality of patient care. In a powerful episode of the Defocus Media podcast, Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Kaleb Abbott, Assistant […]

Join Dr. Darryl Glover as he sits down with Dr. Melissa Barnett—an acclaimed optometrist, specialty contact lens pioneer, and founder of Alpine Blue Coaching—to uncover the secrets of mindful leadership in eye care. In this engaging conversation, they explore how intentional presence and self-awareness empower teams, why proactive wellness rituals can replace burnout, and how clear, compassionate communication transforms patient outcomes and practice […]

In today's evolving healthcare landscape, career shifts in optometry are becoming more common and more necessary. As the industry adapts to changing patient needs, technology, and work-life expectations, eye care professionals are rethinking what it means to grow in their careers. For many, these shifts are driven by more than ambition—they reflect a deeper alignment […]

Presbyopia is a natural, age-related condition affecting 128 million worldwide, often addressed  with traditional solutions like reading glasses or progressive lenses. However, a groundbreaking  alternative is emerging: QLOSI™, a new presbyopia treatment featuring a 0.4% pilocarpine  hydrochloride ophthalmic solution.

The eye care industry is facing a critical moment. Across the country, patients are struggling to access timely vision and medical eye care due to a growing imbalance between provider supply and patient demand. This disparity underscores a truth that can no longer be ignored: we need more optometrists. With a shrinking number of ophthalmologists and rising healthcare needs of an aging population, optometrists are increasingly vital in bridging the gap and improving access to care.

In this episode of the 2020 Podcast, Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Toronto-based optometrist Dr. Alexa Hecht—whose bite-sized videos have gone viral, racking millions of views—to unpack how she turned clinical expertise into a thriving personal brand. Listeners will look inside at her journey from COVID-era newcomer to sought-after dry-eye specialist, learn how she […]

Episode 40 of the Depth Perception Podcast, “Finding Your Dream Job,” brings together industry insiders Nadia Afkhami, OD; Jasdeep Singh, OD; and fourth-year student Svetlana Nunez to demystify the career search in optometry. In this episode, they explore how to identify personal priorities—whether it's income goals, practice style, or work–life balance—and compare different practice models, […]

In a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, eye care professionals (ECPs) face both unprecedented opportunities and mounting challenges. From artificial intelligence (AI) transforming diagnostic workflows to the growing demand for retail sophistication, and a profession grappling with its identity, the time for clarity and action is now.Pierre Bourre—an optician by trade with over 30 years of […]

As clinical research expands within the optometry field, the research coordinator's role is gaining long-overdue recognition. These professionals make research feasible and compliant in everyday eye care settings. Whether you're an optometrist seeking to diversify your services or a professional exploring a new career path, understanding the function and value of the research coordinator can open doors to innovation and impact.

In the ever-evolving landscape of eye care, practitioners are increasingly recognizing the critical role that nutrition plays in both systemic and ocular health. While pharmacological treatments and surgical interventions remain essential tools in managing eye diseases, a more foundational approach—centered on what patients eat—is gaining momentum. At the heart of this movement lies the plant-based […]

In this episode of "Lunch Date with Rachel and Kate," the hosts dive into a data-driven discussion on optometry salaries, highlighting key findings from three major sources: Eyes on Eyecare, Review of Optometry, and ODs on Finance.

In this episode of The 20/20 Podcast, host Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Jason Carruthers, a Canadian optician, ortho-keratologist, and founder of OrthoKLaunch.com, to dive deep into the untapped potential of orthokeratology (Ortho-K). With decades of experience in optical retail and specialty contact lenses, Jason shares his journey from being told that “there's no money in contacts” to […]

The Eye Health Summit is not just another virtual gathering—it's a transformative experience designed to change the way patients, providers, and professionals think about vision care. Hosted by board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained neuro-ophthalmologist Dr. Rudrani Banik, the summit brings together 35 top-tier experts from across the eye care industry to explore topics that span both conventional and integrative approaches to eye health.

On the latest episode of the EYE-Q Podcast, Dr. Rudrani Banik explores Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). This multifaceted condition affects the eyes and is closely linked to thyroid dysfunction. As eye care professionals, understanding TED's pathophysiology, symptoms, and treatment options is essential to providing optimal care to affected patients.

Autoimmune thyroid conditions like Hashimoto's disease and Graves' disease affect millions globally, often silently disrupting hormonal balance and overall well-being. Though commonly overlooked or misdiagnosed, these conditions can have a profound impact on energy levels, weight, cardiovascular health, gut function, mental clarity, and even vision. In Episode 010 of the IQ Podcast titled Eye on […]

Is Arkansas the best place to practice optometry in the United States? Thanks to a groundbreaking new law targeting Vision Benefit Manager abuse, the state has made a powerful case. On February 25, 2024, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed Act 142 into law—legislation designed to protect optometrists and their patients from anti-competitive practices orchestrated by […]

Introduction In the evolving landscape of optometry, behavioral binocular vision (BV) experts play a crucial role in reshaping how eye care professionals approach vision-related challenges. Traditional optometry has long focused on visual acuity, prescribing glasses and contact lenses to correct refractive errors. However, BV experts look beyond clarity of vision, addressing the underlying binocular dysfunctions […]

Dr. Cifuentes shared her top three branding tips that every eye care professional should embrace to build a powerful and authentic brand. These tips focus on the power of storytelling, the importance of social media, and the unmatched value of authenticity.

In this episode of the Eye – Q Podcast, Dr. Rudrani Banik welcomes Ashley Koff, a renowned registered dietitian and founder of the Better Nutrition Program, to discuss the pivotal role of GLP-1 medications in managing diabetes, weight loss, and metabolic health. With her extensive experience in personalized nutrition, Ashley delves into how GLP-1 receptor agonists […]

Varilux Physio Extensee doesn't just improve sight; it transforms how patients interact with their world, offering sharper focus, smoother transitions, and unparalleled performance in challenging lighting conditions. By combining AI-driven enhancements with decades of optical expertise, this lens delivers a personalized visual experience that adapts seamlessly to modern life.

Entrepreneurship in the eye care industry is rapidly evolving, with optometrists increasingly stepping beyond the traditional exam lane to build impactful businesses. One such example is Dr. Brianna Rhue, co-founder of Dr. Contact Lens, a platform designed to simplify contact lens ordering and enhance patient retention.

In a recent podcast episode, Dr. Chris Lievens and Dr. Timothy Earley delved into the evolving role of ERG in managing chronic eye diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy. This article explores the insights shared during their conversation, focusing on the practical applications of ERG, its impact on patient care, and its future potential in optometry.

In eye care, innovation is the key to improving patient outcomes and the overall experience. With the recent FDA clearance of Nuance Audio Glasses, eye care professionals and audiologists now have a powerful tool to address vision and mild to moderate hearing loss. This breakthrough technology combines the convenience of eyewear with advanced audio capabilities, offering a discreet and effective solution for millions of patients.

In this episode, the hosts discuss various topics related to optometry, including the impact of recent fires on their community, the transition to refraction-only practices, and the importance of patient education regarding eye health. They explore the evolving standard of care in optometry, the role of technology like OCT and Optos, and the challenges faced […]

For over a century, the Southeastern Education Congress of Optometry (SECO) has been a beacon of education, innovation, and professional growth in eye care. As optometry evolves, professionals must stay ahead of cutting-edge developments, clinical advancements, and legislative changes. SECO 2025 promises to deliver unparalleled learning experiences, impactful networking opportunities, and specialized laser training to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in their careers.

Ray-Ban Meta has taken the eyewear industry by storm, merging stylish design with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. This revolutionary technology integrates Chatbot AI and Vision AI, making everyday interactions more seamless and enhancing accessibility for all users. With the ability to provide real-time translation, assist visually impaired individuals, and create personalized experiences, Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses is redefining smart eyewear.

We all rely on artificial intelligence in our daily lives. From Siri to Google Maps and Netflix recommendations, AI is a constant presence. But did you know it is also transforming eye care and ophthalmology? From advanced diagnostics to research and personalized treatments, ophthalmic artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the future of vision care.